‘Trying Is All That Matters’: Family and Faithful Honor the Radiant Life of Benjamin Vo Five Weeks After Devastating Cancer Loss

Five weeks after nineteen-year-old Benjamin Vo lost his valiant fight against Acute Myeloid Leukemia, his family and community continue to find strength in the vibrant faith and gentle warmth he left behind. The memory of the high school athlete and devout Catholic remains as vivid as ever for his parents, Alan and Thao, and his brother, Ryan.

Friends and family recently gathered for a memorial Mass timed with the Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene. The service drew striking parallels between the grief of Mary Magdalene weeping at the empty tomb and the heartbreaking sense of loss experienced by those Benjamin left behind. In the Gospel reading, Mary stands outside the tomb in darkness, blinded by sorrow until Christ speaks her name.

Those close to the Vo family describe Benjamin as a young man whose presence brought immediate calm and joy. Whether he was competing on the badminton court or pushing through grueling basketball tryouts, Benjamin carried a signature motto that defined his entire outlook on life: trying is all that matters. He believed that pure intention, hard work, and love were what truly counted in God’s eyes.

One family friend shared that Benjamin never complained during his treatment, choosing instead to focus on how his loved ones were holding up. Another commenter noted that watching Benjamin live out his faith made everyone around him want to be kinder and more present.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia, the disease that claimed Benjamin’s life, is a rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow. Medical advocates stress that recognizing early warning signs—including unexpected bruising, recurring fevers, and profound exhaustion—can make a critical difference in treatment outcomes. Joining bone marrow donor registries remains one of the most direct ways everyday people can help patients battling aggressive blood conditions.

During the service, those in attendance were reminded that grief is not a sign of weak faith, but rather a reflection of immense love. Just as Jesus recognized Mary Magdalene in her deepest moment of despair, community members expressed faith that God holds Alan, Thao, Ryan, and every grieving family in His tender care.

On the latest podcast episode, our hosts dig into Benjamin's inspiring life legacy, exploring how his simple philosophy of life continues to offer comfort to hearts in healing.