James R. Berenson, MD

Dr. James R. Berenson is the Founder, President, and Medical and Scientific Director of the Institute for Myeloma & Bone Cancer Research (IMBCR) and President of Oncotherapeutics, a leading organization conducting clinical trials across the U.S. focused on myeloma, metastatic bone disease, and other cancers.

A world-renowned oncologist and researcher, Dr. Berenson has dedicated his career to improving outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients through groundbreaking research and innovative treatment development. His work bridges science and compassion, advancing care while offering hope to countless patients and families worldwide.

Dr. Andrea Ruman

Dr. Andrea Ruman is an internist at UCLA’s Arthur Ashe Student Health Center, where she has cared for patients for over 30 years. A graduate of Stanford University and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, she completed her residency in Internal Medicine at UCLA. Inspired by her identical twin sister’s journey as a breast cancer survivor, Dr. Ruman brings deep compassion and understanding to her work, advocating for early detection and patient-centered care. Outside of medicine, she finds joy with her beloved rough collies, whose gentle spirit mirrors her own.

Siobhan Shaw

Chair and Co-Founder of Growing to Give (G2G), home to the nation’s largest food forest, Siobhan believes strong communities—like good fruit—grow best when rooted in care. She’s also the creator and host of Cancer Bites, a podcast blending humor and honesty about living fully with metastatic breast cancer, and producer of Red Hot Topics with Dr. Roni. A frequent contributor to national publications, Siobhan brings leadership, creativity, and lived experience to her advisory work, reminding us that resilience can be serious business—but it doesn’t always have to sound that way.

Desireé Finnegan

Desireé Finnegan is the Chief Executive Officer of Screen Ireland, where she leads the strategic growth of Ireland’s film, television, and animation sectors, championing creativity and storytelling on a global stage. Before joining Screen Ireland, Desiree spent over a decade at Warner Bros. Pictures, serving as Senior Vice President of International Marketing and Publicity—first in Burbank, overseeing global campaigns, and later in London, heading EMEA regional efforts.

Known for her thoughtful leadership, creative insight, and deep care for people, Desiree brings a global perspective and heartfelt commitment to causes that support women and families navigating cancer. Her belief in the power of connection, community, and compassion aligns deeply with CaraKit’s mission to bring real care where it’s needed most.

Robert Summers, PhD

Bob Summers is a Los Angeles and Reno-based business development executive who has spent his career helping others build thriving companies across health care, technology, hospitality, and real estate investment.

He has an extraordinary ability to connect with others—seeing potential where others see challenge, and bringing humor and heart to every conversation. Whether mentoring founders, supporting friends through tough times, or helping teams find their spark again, Bob approaches it all with genuine care and optimism. His steady belief that success grows from compassion makes him not only an accomplished leader but also one of the most uplifting voices in any room.

Patty McDonald

Patty McDonald is a multi-engine commercial pilot who flew corporately and was a multi-year competitor in the 99s Air Race Classic before being diagnosed with cancer. A mother of four and grandmother of eleven, Patty has navigated significant health challenges within her family, including a pediatric liver transplant and juvenile diabetes—and is herself a cancer survivor. Today, she channels her energy and compassion into her role with Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets, the company she co-runs with her husband to create treats that support better health. Patty’s life and work are rooted in care, resilience, and the belief that even life’s hardest moments can lead to something unexpectedly sweet.