Sponsor Needed! Lex Lo, Helix High School ’21

Hello my name is Lex Lo, I’m a sophomore from the class of 2021 at Helix Charter High school and this is my story.

My life began within the city of La Mesa. Five years into my birth, my dad left to Iraq in order to serve within the U.S. army. During that time, my mom raised me and my three sisters working as a hairdresser. When my father was finally discharged, it took him several months before he could finally find a job. Growing up as a second generation immigrant within a low income family has resulted in many complications throughout my education.

Within middle school I was introduced to the formal presentation. During these presentations I had to use hand-me-down suits and shoes, unfortunately this alternative has become unavailable as I outgrew my dad’s clothing. With my increasing size formal speeches weren’t the only activity in which I was burden in. As time continues to pass finding affordable formal wear and shoes has become increasingly difficult. With the average cost of my shoes starting at 90 or more dollars my family searches for affordable alternatives, but this proves to be a monumental task.

Due to my economic standpoint sports are too expensive. Last year I began wrestling, but sadly due to the size of my feet affordable wrestling shoes are scarce. My wrestling shoes cost double the price of normal shoes, but this investment was to my benefit as the sport has improved my overall health. I insist on continuing wrestling due to its disciplinary and health benefits, but my parents are overwhelmed with the cost of the equipment. Wrestling has eaten into my educational essentials budget, backpacks, pencils, notebooks, highlighters and pencils are carefully rationed between me and my three siblings.

With your contributions I will be able to access new formal wear, sporting goods, notebooks, a work desk, a backpack, a printer, a laptop, field trips, wrestling tournaments, educational summer camps and even some new prescription glasses. I hope that you consider helping me achieve the best education possible.