Meet our Board Members

Barb Forss
Board President

Barb’s journey has been defined by resilience in the face of adversity. For 47 years, she grappled with severe Factor VII deficiency, enduring frequent hospitalizations, numerous surgeries, and the heartbreak of losing five pregnancies, ultimately leading to a total hysterectomy at the tender age of 29. Throughout this tumultuous period, medical professionals struggled to pinpoint the root cause, repeatedly dismissing the possibility of hemophilia due to its perceived impossibility in her case.

However, Barb's relentless pursuit of answers bore fruit when she finally received a diagnosis for her rare, hereditary bleeding disorder. This pivotal moment ignited her passion for advocacy, propelling her to dedicate herself to ensuring that others never experience the same isolation and uncertainty she endured. Barb's unwavering commitment to the CHES Foundation, a pioneering force in championing the rights of women and individuals with rare bleeding disorders nationwide, underscores her profound belief in the power of community support and solidarity. As a valued board member, she channels her experiences into a tireless mission to "give back and pay it forward," inspiring hope and driving positive change for generations to come.


Antonio Burgess

Tony's journey as a fervent advocate for those affected by bleeding disorders is deeply rooted in personal conviction and unwavering dedication. Inspired by his daughter's battle with a rare condition, Tony embarked on a profound quest to not only comprehend but also actively address every facet of bleeding disorders. His commitment to the cause led him to forge strong partnerships with local chapters, where he spearheaded innovative approaches and fundraising endeavors that revitalized community engagement and support.

Driven by a relentless pursuit of progress, Tony now lends his expertise to CHES, leveraging his extensive experience to fortify the organization's information technology infrastructure. With a strategic vision aimed at enhancing global outreach and education within the bleeding disorders community, he endeavors to bridge gaps, amplify awareness, and foster a sense of unity across borders. Tony's decision to align himself with CHES underscores his unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and families affected by bleeding disorders, embodying a beacon of hope and catalyst for transformative change on a global scale.


Stacy Pechter BSN, RN

Stacy's journey from a patient to a healthcare provider is a testament to their resilience and dedication to improving care within the bleeding disorders community. Since their involvement with CHES began in 2012, Stacy has been a staunch advocate for equity in treatment, drawing from their personal experience with Factor VII Deficiency and Systemic Sclerosis. Their upbringing in a family grappling with medical conditions, coupled with their own diagnosis and subsequent challenges in accessing care, has fueled their passion for closing the treatment gap, especially for individuals with mild or rare bleeding disorders, including those assigned female at birth.

With a background in nursing and bioinformatics, Stacy has continuously expanded their skill set to address healthcare disparities. Graduating with a BSN in 2018, they worked as a Registered Nurse at Mayo Clinic before pursuing an AS in Bioinformatics from Rochester Community and Technical College in 2022. Now, as a graduate student at the University of Colorado, Stacy is pursuing a Master of Science in Healthcare Informatics, further solidifying their expertise in leveraging data to drive positive change in healthcare practices.

Stacy's academic and professional journey exemplifies their commitment to making meaningful contributions to healthcare. Their multidisciplinary approach, combined with their firsthand experience and advocacy, positions them as a catalyst for improving treatment accessibility and options for individuals with bleeding disorders. As they prepare to graduate in August 2024, Stacy is poised to continue their impactful work, inspiring others with their story of perseverance and dedication to fostering equitable healthcare for all.


Joanna Davis, MD

Dr. Joanna Davis is an Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the University of Miami Leonard Miller School of Medicine in Miami, Florida. She is the Medical Co-Director of the University of Miami Comprehensive Pediatric Hemophilia Treatment Center, which she founded in 1987. The combined Adult and Pediatric Center is one of the largest in the Southeast Region of the United States, serving over 400 patients with a variety of bleeding and clotting disorders. Dr. Davis is board-certified in both Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology.

Dr. Davis has been and remains involved in numerous clinical trials studying new therapies and interventions for hemophilia and von Willebrand’s Disease. She is a strong advocate for patient and provider education, has published many books for patients and their families, and has developed an introductory Hemophilia lecture series for healthcare providers, which has been presented to close to 4,000 physicians and nurses nationwide.

Dr. Davis is a member of ASH, ISTH, ATHN, and HTRS. She serves on numerous advisory boards and has been involved in organizations and efforts focusing on women with bleeding disorders. She is active in the local community, meeting with patients and advocacy groups and presenting the latest research and advice to people living with coagulation disorders.


Gary McClain, PhD

Dr. Gary McClain is a distinguished therapist, esteemed patient advocate, and accomplished author dedicated to empowering individuals grappling with the emotional toll of chronic and life-threatening illnesses, alongside their families and professional caregivers. With his specialized expertise, Dr. McClain guides clients through the intricate terrain of their emotions, equipping them with the tools to navigate lifestyle adjustments and treatment avenues. He fosters adherence to medical regimens, facilitates effective communication with healthcare providers, nurtures improved familial interactions, and encourages individuals to heed their inner wisdom when charting their path forward.

Drawing from his extensive experience supporting individuals within the bleeding disorder community, Dr. McClain brings a wealth of knowledge to his endeavors. He has been actively involved in the transformative family camps and hotel events organized by the CHES Foundation, an experience he cherishes deeply.

Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. McClain is a prolific contributor to healthcare literature, lending his insights to esteemed publications and online platforms. He fosters dialogue within social health communities and leads workshops centered on the art of navigating life with chronic conditions, under the banner of Chronic Communication Skills™.

To further extend his reach and support, Dr. McClain maintains an informative website, www.JustGotDiagnosed.com, serving as a valuable resource for individuals embarking on their health journey. With unwavering dedication, Dr. McClain remains committed to uplifting and empowering those he serves, ensuring they find solace and strength in the face of adversity.


Trisha Osborne, CPA
Treasurer

Trisha Osborne, CPA, became an integral part of CHES Foundation from its inception in 2009, assuming the role of Certified Public Accountant. With a keen eye for financial management and an extensive background in tax compliance, Trisha oversees the allocation of company funds and ensures adherence to regulatory standards within the non-profit sector. Drawing from over 34 years of accounting expertise, she brings a wealth of experience to her position, having honed her skills in tax specialization through various roles in regional firms before establishing her own successful practice in 2001. Trisha's academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science major in Accounting with a minor in Management, obtained from Bentley College (now Bentley University). Her dedication extends beyond CHES Foundation, having served as treasurer for another non-profit entity for over a decade.

While Trisha's professional journey may not have initially intersected with the bleeding disorder community, her profound understanding of chronic illnesses resonates deeply with the foundation's mission. Leveraging her specialized acumen and compassionate approach to problem-solving, she plays a pivotal role in advancing CHES Foundation's objective of providing vital support to families navigating the complexities of living with chronic conditions. Trisha's commitment to excellence and unwavering strength makes a tangible difference and underscores her invaluable contribution to the organization's ongoing success.