Lighthouse For Hope & Jillian

In 2019 I was diagnosed with Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria and Aplastic Anemia. Two rare, life-threatening conditions that eventually led me to a bone marrow transplant in February 2024. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through - physically and emotionally. I felt like I lost myself in the process.

As I began recovering, I searched everywhere for young women who understood what it felt like to face something so rare and isolating. Their honesty and bravery on social media became my lifeline and I hoped that I’d find that same kind of connection in real life. And thanks to Lighthouse For Hope, I did!

I was invited to attend Lighthouse's Illuminate Retreat in Hawaii, a trip created specifically for young women navigating cancer and blood disorders. For the first time, I was surrounded by people who truly understood me.   I can wholeheartedly say, I finally saw the light of this horrible journey I had to endure - it brought me every single amazing woman on this trip.

Lighthouse gave me friendship, healing, and a piece of myself back. And I want more young women like me to experience that same life-changing support! That's why I’m fundraising for Lighthouse so they can continue hosting retreats, providing financial assistance to families in crisis, and showing up for young adults fighting battles most people never see.

Thank you for helping me give back to the community that helped me!