

During high school, Rakshitha was always involved in raising awareness about cancer, being apart of many clubs. She raised awareness about cancer and supported those affected by it.
However, after Rakshitha’s uncle was diagnosed with cancer in India, she saw firsthand the alarming state of treatment facilities in underprivileged hospitals. This unsettling experience pushed her to research the impact of poverty on cancer outcomes. She discovered that individuals living in the lowest-income counties have a cancer death rate that is about 20% higher than those living in the highest-income counties. Globally, the disparity is even more staggering, with low-income countries experiencing a higher proportion of preventable cancer deaths.
Rakshitha fueled her passion to create an impact. With the support of close, dedicated friends, she founded EmpowerCare Initiative. Together, they formed a leadership team committed to making a difference. They began by selling bracelets, hosting events, organizing fundraisers, and gathering donations, all with the goal of supporting underprivileged cancer patients. With a social media team, they began utilizing the platforms of social media.

With the support of a growing team across the nation filled with amazing, dedicated volunteers, ECI has raised over $900+, worked with companies, and has donated to hospitals. ECI is excited about the journey ahead and is dedicated to transforming hospitals into places of healing and hope for everyone.