John Lennon and Yoko with the Hong family The Lennons repeatedly offered financial help, which Emily Hong said the family first refused, but eventually accepted. The “support made a big difference in our lives,” Ms. Hong said. The checks, sometimes for thousands of dollars, were sent for years — until the girls reached adulthood.
“When Mr. Hong passed away, he left behind two young daughters to care for themselves,” Ms. Ono said in a written statement. “John and I decided to help them out — to make sure they survived, had a home and food to eat — and given opportunities like every child deserves.”
After Lennon’s murder, the families drifted apart, but the sisters have made the most of the breaks they received. Barbara Hong works in health care for a biotech company; Emily Hong is the founder of Furry Friends Rescue, a foster care service for pets.
