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. Nicholas Short is an Associate Professor in the Department of Leukemia at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He specializes in adult acute leukemias, with a focus on targeted therapies and measurable residual disease (MRD). Dr. Short leads numerous phase I and II clinical trials exploring new treatment options for AML and ALL. He has authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications and has presented his research at major conferences like ASH and ASCO. His work has earned him prestigious honors, including the ASCO Young Investigator Award and the ASH Junior Faculty Scholar Award.