Marilu Najera is an International Medical Graduate and an Event Operations Manager at the HealthTree Foundation. Her journey through several patient-centered roles has deepened her passion for advocacy, education, and connection. Now, as part of the education team, she is leading efforts to grow HealthTree’s newest community: ALL (acute lymphoblastic leukemia). She organizes patient-friendly webinars with expert speakers and works to ensure that patients and families feel informed, empowered, and supported. Marilu brings empathy, joy, and warmth to every project. Outside of work, she loves to travel, connect with others, and spend time with her loved ones—especially her nephews (being an aunt is her absolute favorite role in life!).

Dr. Yannis K. Valtis is a leukemia specialist and cellular therapist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where he focuses on treating adults with leukemia and other blood cancers. His expertise includes the use of cellular therapies, such as CAR T-cell therapy, to improve outcomes while reducing chemotherapy side effects. Dr. Valtis is also active in clinical research, working to develop and refine new treatment options for patients.