Candles, Recollections Pay Tribute To Teen Who Fought Rare Disorder

ERMA – Family and friends gathered here Feb. 27 to celebrate a life taken way too soon.
Seventeen-year-old Chase Gartner died one year ago from HLH. What is HLH (hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis)?
That was the question of the night since it is relatively unknown and a condition that is not talked about much. HLH is a rare disorder with a big name and even greater consequences. It is often caused by an inherited problem of the immune system. 
Cells of the immune system do not function properly and do not destroy infected cells as they should; research shows the cells actually “eat” other cells, including healthy ones.
Gartner became ill in late December 2014 at the age of 17. Despite putting up the fight of his life, only about two short months later, he succumbed.
Family and friends gathered at his family home, not to mourn but to celebrate.
They celebrated a life taken too early and to spread awareness about HLH.  
A crowd gathered, reminiscing and remembering their favorite moments with Gartner. People and hearts united as the sky lit in honor of Gartner, everyone in attendance proudly holding their tribute candle high.
His mother spoke of the hardship he went through, spending a lot of time at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and never once complaining. Through tears, she spoke of the importance of loving each other and reminding each other that days are not promised, each should be lived to its fullest. 
Her message was clear; she spoke of her loss not only as a way to heal but to spread awareness of HLH. Statistics show that early detection of HLH can make the difference in life or death and if just one life is saved, this mother’s work is done, her tragedy is not in vain.
Other family members spoke, reading prayers and poems. Friends chimed in making the vigil not only a remembrance but a night of healing not only for the family but for Gartner’s young friends. 
As friends shouted fond memories of the teen, it became clear, despite his short life; he made the most of it and brightened the lives of many.
To learn about HLH visit: histio.org
To contact Johanna Hovik, email jhovik@cmcherald.com.