Mesothelioma Advisory Board

Triple board-certified thoracic surgeon and founder of the Mesothelioma International Treatment Program at AdventHealth; pioneer in hyperthermic intraoperative chemotherapy (HIOC) and 3D thoracic procedures, with more than 25 years of experience in mesothelioma care.

Dr. Jeffrey B. Velotta is a thoracic surgeon at Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, where he treats pleural mesothelioma and lung cancer patients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and the West Coast.

Travis E. Grotz, M.D., M.S., is a surgical oncologist specializing in cancers of the gastrointestinal (GI) system and soft tissues. His approach combines precision, compassion, and the latest surgical techniques to help people achieve the best possible outcomes.

Leah Backhus MD MPH FACS is the Thelma and Henry Doelger Professor in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Stanford University. She trained in general surgery at the University of Southern California and cardiothoracic surgery at the University of California Los Angeles. She practices at Stanford Hospital and is Chief of Thoracic Surgery at the VA Palo Alto.

Nichole Andrews, RDN, is a Registered Oncology Dietitian Nutritionist with 15+ years of experience helping people navigate cancer through evidence-based nutrition. She is the founder of The Oncology Dietitian and the bestselling author of Sugar Does Not Feed Cancer, dedicated to debunking nutrition myths and empowering patients with practical, science-backed guidance.

Eleanor B. Ericson (Ellie), RN, BSN, is a registered nurse with over four decades of hands-on clinical experience, including many years at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. She has a special interest in Mesothelioma and has cared for numerous patients and families navigating this complex diagnosis across the continuum of care.

Lisa Barrett, RN, is a nurse leader with many years of dedicated bedside experience, recognized for her compassionate, patient-centered approach and commitment to clinical excellence. She has a strong focus on Mesothelioma and has supported many patients facing complex and life-altering diagnoses.

Julie Russell, RN, is a highly experienced registered nurse with more than 35 years of specialized experience in cardiovascular care. Since 1991, she has served in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Lahey Clinic in Burlington, Massachusetts, where she plays a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with complex cardiac conditions.

Charlene Haouliya, LICSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with more than 15 years of experience supporting patients and families affected by mesothelioma and other complex thoracic diseases.

Matthew Lasher is an executive, veteran advocate and strategic leader with more than 30 years of experience across the public and private sectors. Throughout his career he has worked at helping individuals navigate complex systems, connect with resources, and build futures through education, advocacy and planning.

Jersouk Touy is a United States Army veteran with 22 years of leadership experience and co-founder and co-owner of Trua of Greater Boston, operating through Heart & Honor Transitions Group, LLC.

Jessica “Jessie” Marasco is a retired United States Air Force veteran and co-founder and co-owner of Trua of Greater Boston, operating through Heart & Honor Transitions Group, LLC.

Dave Foster reviews and edits many of the articles found on Mesothelioma.net. Dave has been a mesothelioma Patient Advocate for over 11 years. He consistently attends all major national and international mesothelioma meetings to stay on top of the latest treatments, clinical trials, and research results.

Anna Jackson has been a mesothelioma Patient Advocate for nearly 11 years. She regularly attends mesothelioma meetings and symposiums in order to provide the best medical and legal support for patients. Anna prides herself on being a compassionate listener.

Larry Gates specializes in working with Military Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer. He helps them file claims with the Veteran’s Administration, as well as access compensation from asbestos trust funds. Larry is honored to serve those who served our country.

Yvette Abrego has been a mesothelioma Patient Advocate for 15 years. Her goal is to educate families on every aspect of mesothelioma and determine the medical and legal needs of each patient.