Help Us Fight Plasma Cell Leukemia - For Catherine

Hi everyone,

In November 2023, my world was turned upside down when my amazing mother, Catherine Kazemi, was diagnosed with Plasma Cell Leukemia (PCL)—a rare and aggressive form of multiple myeloma. This type of cancer affects plasma cells (the white blood cells that help fight infections), but in PCL, these abnormal cells spread through the bloodstream instead of staying in the bone marrow.

This has been one of the toughest challenges our family has ever faced, but through it all, my mom has been fighting like a warrior. She’s been recovering well and showing steady signs of improvement, thanks to the incredible care she’s receiving. But because this type of cancer is so aggressive and rare, I wanted to do more—not just for her, but for others battling the same disease.

That’s why on March 16th, I’ll be running the LA Marathon alongside my good friend Michael Ihle to raise money for Plasma Cell Leukemia research. Every single dollar we raise will go directly to the UCLA Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation, because UCLA Health has been absolutely amazing in taking care of my mom.

We’re setting an initial goal of $1,000, but we know we can go beyond that with your help! Every donation—big or small—makes a difference. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this with others.

Thank you all for your love and support. It truly means the world to us. ❤️

Let’s do this—for my mom, and for everyone fighting this battle.

#TeamCatherine #PCLAwareness #LAMarathonForACure