Two Young New Jersey Women in the Fight of Their Lives Against Blood Cancer

This September, as the nation recognizes Blood Cancer Awareness Month, the stories of Katie Parrinello and Lisa Harulaj offer a powerful look at the impact of this disease on young adults. These two New Jersey women, both in the prime of their lives, are facing down aggressive blood cancers with resilience and hope. Central to both of their stories is Hackensack University Medical Center, where a dedicated team of doctors and nurses provides the cutting-edge treatment and compassionate support that fuels their fight and inspires their shared mission to advocate for others.

Katie Parrinello: From Advocate to Patient

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For Katie Parrinello, a 30-year-old real estate agent and fitness studio owner from Monmouth County, the fight against blood cancer began long before her own diagnosis. A dedicated fundraiser for Blood Cancer United, she had already raised tens of thousands of dollars and was honored with the 2025 patient advocacy award. This spring, her advocacy took on a deeply personal meaning when a persistent cough, initially dismissed as asthma, led to a stage 4 primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma diagnosis.

"You have to be your own advocate," says Parrinello, reflecting on the 50-day journey to get the right diagnosis. "That cough was my body telling me something was wrong, and I'm grateful I listened."

Now, nearing the end of her treatment at Hackensack University Medical Center, Parrinello is a testament to the power of a positive mindset. She has channeled her entrepreneurial spirit into her recovery, even preparing "hydration station" baskets for the nursing staff during each treatment. She recently rang the bell and is now in remission.

Lisa Harulaj: From Marathon Runner to Cancer Fighter

Just weeks before her diagnosis, Lisa Harulaj, 31 years old from Hackensack, NJ was training for the New York City Marathon. An active and healthy accountant, she was running half-marathons and 10Ks, with no idea that her life was about to change. Routine blood work in early June revealed the devastating news: acute myeloid leukemia.

"Life as I knew it came to a screeching halt," says Harulaj, who lives just blocks from the hospital where she is now undergoing intensive chemotherapy. "I went from running miles to needing help with the simplest tasks. It's a humbling experience."

Despite the grueling treatments, which have included a 23-day hospital stay and significant side effects, Harulaj remains focused on the future. She is working with the National Marrow Donor Program to find a stem cell transplant donor and is hopeful about a new, recently approved drug that may improve her outcome. Supported by her family, including a sister who is a nurse practitioner and another who works in cancer research, Harulaj is determined to cross the finish line in her race against cancer.

The stories of Katie Parrinello and Lisa Harulaj are a powerful reminder of the human toll of blood cancer. This September, we invite you to share their journeys of hope, resilience, and advocacy.