Northport,
New York
I am a COPD advocate and proud to serve as the New York State Captain for the COPD Foundation. I’m an advocate because I want to help make a difference for the 15 million Americans living with COPD as well as the 15 million who may be living with it and are undiagnosed. My father died from COPD in November 2010. As his primary caregiver and a witness to the devastating effects of this disease, I knew I needed to make a difference for everyone affected by COPD. My journey has taken me from being my dad’s caregiver to serving the COPD community. My focus has expanded to community-based outreach, social media and meeting with lawmakers to help inspire changes. I have participated in previous Lobby Days in Washington D.C. including most recently IMPACT 2026.
My passion for this cause is deeply personal. It is through this journey, I have experienced firsthand the daily challenges that COPD brings not only for those diagnosed, but for the caregivers who manage their care on a daily basis. This role has shaped my understanding, strengthened my voice, and driven my commitment to making a difference for all those affected by COPD.
As State Captain, my goal is to continue raising COPD awareness. It’s vital that we educate and empower patients to learn and manage their COPD. I would like to inspire more caregivers to get involved with advocacy efforts as "advocacy is key to raising awareness".
As a caregiver and advocate, I believe in the power of education of the patient, community outreach and compassion to improve their lives and bring hope to those affected.
My proudest COPD moment was after my father passed away in 2010 from COPD, I met with my Representative, Steve Israel and convinced him to join the Congressional COPD Caucus.
My inspiration to share is "What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." -Ralph Waldo Emerson