The Blessed & Breezy Fund was established in January 2022 by the Benudiz family in Toronto to honour the memory of their beloved son and brother, Jesse.

 

Jesse was an old soul who danced to his own beat. He was a loving, warm, affectionate son, brother and friend. He had a zest for life, enjoyed being surrounded by people and above all, helping others. His larger-than-life personality lit up every room he entered, and his easy, warm smile was infectious. In his short 22 years, he accomplished much and touched many. He was a born leader both at school and in the community. Wise beyond his years, Jesse taught many about perseverance, courage and strength. He had a positive spirit and a kind soul.

 

After battling a brain tumor with surgery, 4-week long sessions of chemotherapy and daily radiation for a month and a half, Jesse was in remission by the end of November 2020. Wanting to share his experience and positive attitude, Jesse shined a light on mental health, and combatted the stigma that surrounds it when he started the Blessed and Breezy Podcast. The message of his first podcast was to celebrate small wins.

 

Donations will be directed to Brain Cancer Research at the Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada (IMRIC) in the Faculty of Medicine at Hebrew U.