The story behind Younis Mansi Essa

Younis Essa

Younis Essa’s children were the driving force behind establishing this scholarship in order to honor their father. A strong man and a fighter, Younis suffered from chronic renal failure and was on dialysis for over 20 years. The hospital became his second home. Younis spent much of his time with healthcare professionals, developing meaningful relationships. “They loved him and his contagious smile,” says Dena Essa of her father. Younis, who was born and raised in Palestine and immigrated to America to provide better opportunities for his children, is the sole reason behind this scholarship for students pursuing their degrees in the healthcare field.

“Our dad fought and struggled to survive his disease. Some days were more difficult than others and never once did he give in. He endured the suffering so that he could live another day to see his family. He taught us how precious life is simply through his fight to live. He taught us to never give up. This scholarship fund is his mark on how to face the world; to always fight with courage and bravery. He taught us to face adversity and how to conquer it with resilience and a positive attitude. We will honor his legacy through this scholarship, forgetting the past that made us cry and focusing on the present and future that will always and forever make us smile.” -Deanna, Dena, Ray, Rafat, and Rafek Essa, children of Younis Essa

About the scholarship

This scholarship is awarded annually to undergraduate students in Southeast Michigan who are studying in the healthcare field at universities or community colleges, with a special focus on supporting students pursuing careers as nurses, physician assistants, surgical and ultrasound technicians, respiratory therapists and more. Scholarships are in the amount of $1,000. Complete details are available at www.centeraap.org/grants/scholarships

Give Now

To donate by check: Make checks out to CAAP with “The Younis Mansi Essa Scholarship” on the memo line and mail to:

CAAP, 2651 Saulino Court, Dearborn, MI 48120

CAAP is a national institution of ACCESS, a 501(c)(3) organization EIN: 23-7444497, and your contribution is fully tax-deductible. For more information, please contact caap@accesscommunity.org