For 12 years, I lived with a Chron's misdiagnosis that pushed me to the limit. At 19, that changed when I became septic and was finally diagnosed with Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare and life-threatening form of histiocytosis.

HLH changed my life. My journey included organ failure, intensive treatment, chemotherapy, and ultimately a bone marrow transplant to save me. I was fortunate to find a matched unrelated donor who gave me a second chance at life. Today, I am still here and I am incredibly grateful.

I’ve created Team HLH & Back for the Histio Blue Ribbon Run to bring together the family, friends, and community who have been part of my life throughout my journey with HLH. Together, we’re raising money for the Histiocytosis Association and helping create a future where people affected by histiocytic disorders can find answers, resources, knowledgeable care, research, and community.

Our team has set a goal of $5,000. This is about turning survival into action!

Here’s how you can be part of it:

Donate: Whether it’s $10, $25, $50, $100, or whatever feels right to you, every contribution moves us forward.

Share: You may introduce someone to HLH or histiocytosis for the very first time simply by sharing this page.

Join HLH & Back: I’m inviting my family and friends to participate alongside me because awareness is even more powerful when we create it together!

I've been throufgh HLH & Back. Now I have the privilege of using the life on the other side to help advocate for earlier and more accurate diagnoses for patients with histiocytic disorders.

Let’s see how far we can go together. :)

Find me and more of my journey over on instagram @natemilamii