Students Touched by Janitor's 7-Year Battle with Cancer, Saving Every Penny

Photo by YTN Broadcast Screen Capture.

[Asia Economy Reporter Heo Midam] A heartwarming story has emerged from an alternative school in Gyeonggi-do, where students collectively raised funds to support a janitor diagnosed with cancer. It is reported that the students gathered over 20 million won in just four days without the help of teachers or staff.

On the 11th, YTN reported that students at an alternative school located in Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, held a fundraising campaign for janitor Lee Misook, who had worked there for seven years, over the course of four days.

According to the report, Ms. Lee was suddenly diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in February. Faced with the unexpected diagnosis, she had no choice but to quit her job due to the uncertain financial situation.

Upon hearing about Ms. Lee’s battle with cancer, the students took the initiative to support her by putting up posters encouraging donations throughout the school hallways.

A total of approximately 390 students participated in the fundraising, collecting more than 20 million won.

In addition, the students wrote handwritten letters to Ms. Lee, expressing their hope to see her back at school.

One student said, "Every time I saw her in the school hallway, she greeted me with a warm smile. I hope she receives good treatment and fully recovers so she can return to school."

After receiving the donations and letters, Ms. Lee expressed her gratitude to the students. She said, "I am very thankful. The fact that the students organized this fundraising makes me feel mentally uplifted and able to undergo treatment with a positive spirit."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.