The Nicole Donzello Foudation
Freedom to focus on You
Providing financial assistance to leukemiapatients treated at Smilow Cancer Hospital - Yale New Haven Health


How it Started
In the heart of a small Connecticut town, amidst a life brimming with the joys of motherhood and a thriving legal career, Nicole Donzello's world took an unexpected turn. On February 8, 2015, she received the life-altering diagnosis of Acute Monoblastic Leukemia (AML). This marked the beginning of a challenging journey, one that would demand immense courage, resilience, and unwavering support from her loved ones.
Nicole, a devoted wife and mother of two young children, had to press pause on her life's passions to confront this formidable disease. Her battle with AML has been marked by periods of remission and, unfortunately, three relapses, necessitating two stem cell transplants in February 2017 and June 2020. Throughout these trials, Nicole has remained steadfast in her determination, drawing strength from her family, friends, and the unwavering belief that she would overcome this adversity.
Today, Nicole stands as a beacon of hope, having emerged from the depths of her struggle with renewed purpose. She is deeply grateful for the outpouring of support she received during her treatment, enabling her to focus solely on her recovery. Now, she is driven by a profound desire to pay it forward, to extend a helping hand to fellow leukemia patients and their families, both adult and pediatric, as they navigate the complexities of this disease.
The Nicole Donzello Foundation is the embodiment of this vision. It serves as a testament to Nicole's indomitable spirit and her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. The foundation's mission is to provide financial assistance and support to leukemia patients and their families, easing their burdens and empowering them to concentrate on what matters most: healing and hope.
In Their Own Words
“This donation is a tremendous help - it means our mortgage and medical bills are taken care of . It means I can continue to focus on being physically and mentally here for my loved one. I cannot thank you enough.”
NDF Grant Recipiant
“The Nicole Donzello Foundation grant was a much-needed financial gift made available to our adult Leukemia patients who struggled covering household expenses...”
Mary Crooks, LCSW and Mary Straus, LCSW
"The smiles on the recipients faces spoke volumes. I know they will not forget the support [the foundation gave] them during this most vulnerable time.".
Henry, LCSW, Pediatric Oncology
