Hi! I'm Nate Saelinger, a junior in Washington DC.

When I was three, I was diagnosed with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. Treatment meant surgery and a year of chemo, and I've been in remission ever since. I still live with a lasting condition called diabetes insipidus, a reminder that histio can leave its mark long after the treatment ends.

That's a big part of why, back in 8th grade, I joined the Histiocytosis Association as a youth ambassador. I wanted to meet others who share this experience, learn about the research and advocacy shaping treatment, and find a way to give back. Since then I've done everything from lobbying members of Congress on Capitol Hill to raising awareness online and interviewing physicians about the disease.

This September, I'm excited to take on the Blue Ribbon Run, an annual event where people run, walk, bike, or move however they like to support the Histiocytosis Association. This year our region is challenged to raise $20,000 for research, education, and awareness. Any donation, big or small, brings us closer to that goal, and you can give right here. Every dollar counts.

The challenge runs through September 30th, and I can't wait to see what we can accomplish together.