ACS CAN Connect
Meet your fellow ambassadors!
Your Name Here!
Tell us a bit about yourself! Why do you volunteer with ACS CAN? What’s your dream vacation? How do you spend your free time? Surprising talents?
Please do not edit this page, make a copy of the slide first before you personalize it!
Location & Congressional District Here!
Dave Bonfilio
San Rafael CA-2
I have volunteered for ACS since 1985 because I was asked. Now it is personal. My Mom survived breast cancer in her 80’s because of research. My brother in law survived both colon and prostate cancer. He was treated at UC Davis. Now I do this for my granddaughters.
I am retired but not idle. Besides community work, I take a watercolor painting class - great stress reliever.
Zeena Alzanoon
Roseville- Congressional District 3
I joined ACS CAN in 2020 following my diagnosis with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. I am an ACS CAN volunteer because seeing how cancer affects families inspired me to join the fight against cancer, and the ACS CAN community does that best! Healthcare accessibility is so important to me as everyone deserves the best treatments and resources in their fight.
I am a 3rd year undergraduate at UC Davis studying Neurobiology and hope to continue to PA school! I currently volunteer at a community clinic in Sacramento which provides free healthcare for underserved and underprivileged communities!
Fun fact about me is I loved iced coffee!!
Marie C. Kennedy
Congressional District 6
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because when I faced my cancer diagnosis
I experienced the tough journey navigating the world of health care with a cancer diagnosis. I had years of experience working in health care and it was hard every day. I knew at that time that I would turn “lemons into lemonade” and lend my voice to those that do not have the resources to do so. I had health care insurance, safety, a home, an amazing village, and expert doctors that cared. Oh, and a black lab puppy always by my side.
My “Lights of Hope” fundraiser on National Cancer Survivor’s Day at the UC Davis Cancer Center
Making Our Voices Heard in DC
Bowie, the star of the family!
Part of my village – brought me meals, groceries, walked my dog, kept my house up, loved my kids, joined for infusions . . .
Ringing the bell on day of last infusion with my mom
My kids with me day after cancer surgery
Tracy Steuckrath
Sacramento - Congressional District 6
I began volunteering with ACS CAN in 2018 because as a daughter, granddaughter, and friend of those who had heard the words “You have cancer” I couldn’t sit and wait for our national and state leaders to make research funding and healthcare available. I had to do something, and in ACS CAN I have found my voice and my village, fighting for our loved ones and for all Americans touched by cancer.
I am an Oma and Mom and am blessed to live close to my family. My work in the healthcare industry helps patients receive in-home care so they can age in place rather than in a nursing home. My spirit is renewed by giving back to the community as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for foster youth and by serving on the Sacramento County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls.
Lori Bremner
Sonoma - CA-4
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because I want to make a difference in the fight against cancer, and there is no better way to do that than through advocacy with ACS CAN.
I have been fortunate to serve in several leadership roles with ACS and ACS CAN. I am currently the ACT! Lead for CD4 and the co-chair of the National Ambassador Team. I also represent advocacy on the Global Relay For Life team.
I look forward to meeting you! loribrem@gmail.com
Sabrina Toor
Modesto - Congressional District 5
I joined ACS CAN in 2023 I care about working towards eliminating tobacco usage through policy and grassroots organizing to ensure that individuals aren't held back by addiction.
I am a high school junior in the IB program, actively involved in policy research and advocacy. I lead my school’s Indian Student Union and Newspaper Club, organize political panels, and co-lead my school’s Protecting Health and Slamming Tobacco Club. I also founded Creation4Cessation, a nonprofit dedicated to tobacco cessation through art and policy, and am working to expand its impact nationwide.
Lucinda Bazile, MPH
Hercules - 8th Congressional District
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because having lost my mom and one of my best friends to cancer, I want to advocate for better access to services; especially in communities of color. This is a natural extension of the work I do.
My family enjoys travel to the Caribbean and my happy place is being on a beach.
I am most proud of our two young adults who will be finish college this spring!
Isabella Ramos
Congressional District 10
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because my dad inspired me turning the loss of his parents to cancer into determination to help ensure that one day no one has cancer in their lives.
I’m a nursing student at CSU Stanislaus and I hope to specialize in pediatric oncology. Volunteering with ACSCAN is teaching me how to become the most effective advocate for future patients.
Bob Gordon
San Francisco - CA-11
California is now my home, but I grew up far away, in Maine.
I became a volunteer with ACS CAN after 10 weeks working a phone bank to raise the tobacco tax. That was ten years ago.
A primary reason I stay involved is that I lost 3 relatives to tobacco-related disease. Always the activist, I helped my mom quit smoking Kents. That was when I was 6.
It’s great to be part of a nationwide team, living and voting in Nancy Pelosi’s district, sharing powerful stories, saving lives.
Amanda Webb, CD11: San Francisco
I am a stage iv colon cancer survivor and became involved with ACS CAN after USCF put me in touch with Mary Kemp in 2023. We geeked out about all things cancer and running over coffee and that was all it took. I am super excited to be ACT Lead for District 11 for 2025. ��When I am not involved with cancer advocacy and awareness, I am working my day job as an Executive Assistant, running in Golden Gate Park and or hanging out with my husband and three year old son, Levi��
Phillip Nguyen
Throughout college, I engaged in liver cancer research in honor of my grandfather who passed from hepatocellular carcinoma. I joined ACS CAN in 2023 to fight cancer from a different perspective through advocacy and health policy.
Boy Scouts was a large part of my childhood and thus, some of my favorite hobbies include hiking and camping with my family. I like to film and make videos of our adventures like this one at Yosemite!
I love animals and here is a photo of me and my dog Mulan!
Fremont - CA - District 14
Kira Sano
I joined ACS CAN because of my mom and grandmas who both had cancer. I’ve been a volunteer with ACS/ACS CAN for 9 years since my freshman year of high school! I’ve absolutely loved focusing on youth and young professional empowerment in our work and have been inspired by ACS CAN to pursue a phd in Political Science :)
I love my two cats, photography, swimming, and my family/friends <3
Fremont/Los Angeles – CD14/CD34
Anwita Gandesiri
Congressional District 14
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because I want to advocate for better cancer policies, ensure greater access to screenings and treatments, and create meaningful change so no family has to endure the hardships of cancer. As my own family has been impacted by this disease, I hope to one day live in a world without cancer. I am passionate about equity in healthcare and strive to make a lasting impact through both grassroots efforts and legislative action.
As a junior at Washington High School, I serve as the president of my school’s American Cancer Society Club, where we organize fundraisers, awareness campaigns, and community initiatives to support cancer patients and survivors. In my freetime, I like to do graphic design, run and go outdoors, or watch a good movie! My favorite vacation spots would have to be Hawaii or India.
Feel free to reach out to me at anwitagandesiri@gmail.com
Aaron Zhao
Fremont - Congressional District 14
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because I’ve seen how devastating cancer is, not just for patients but for their families as well. Losing my aunt to stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer caused by an EGFR mutation, showed me just how much this disease affects everyone around it. In her final days, she could no longer work, drive, or even do simple daily tasks. Talking became difficult and watching someone I loved grow so weak and frail was heartbreaking. No one should have to feel powerless against cancer, which is why I volunteer to fight for better policies, more research, and most importantly real change.
Fun fact: I’ve been doing music for 6 years now! (4 years band and 2 years choir!)
Calvin Miller
I became an ACS volunteer because of my family’s history with cancer–my grandfather had glioblastoma, my grandmother has metastatic breast cancer, and my aunt and mother are both survivors of breast cancer. My dog even had cancer, which also sadly took her life. Cancer has unfortunately been a cornerstone of my life, but I believe that because of my experiences, I can be a part of a team that leaves an impact where it matters most.
Aside from that, I am a biology student at Claremont McKenna College, aspiring one day to become a physician in the exact field that led me to medicine in the first place–oncology. I also volunteer at the Cancer Care Center at the local community hospital, and have done research at St John’s Cancer Institute regarding prior authorization delays/denials and how lack of initiative by insurance companies leads to symptom progression and management in glioblastoma patients.
Fun Fact: I love Indian food!
Fremont/Claremont - CA 14/28
Logan Mitchell
Daly City - Congressional District 15
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because I want to honor my family members who have battled cancer. I believe that the most effective way to tackle this disease is through policy and advocacy, and ACS CAN provides the perfect opportunity for me to engage in cancer awareness efforts.
As a senior at St. Ignatius College Preparatory in San Francisco, I serve as the president of my school’s Cancer Awareness Club, one of the largest clubs at our school. We organize fundraisers, Pink Games, and educational events. In 2024, I raised over $1,700 for Lights of Hope in two days. Additionally, I volunteer at the UCSF Oncology Unit, which has deepened my understanding of the true purpose behind cancer advocacy efforts.
Ana Reyes
Palo Alto, District 16
I am an ACS volunteer because I was diagnosed with Stage 2 cervical cancer in 2015, and then later diagnosed with Stage 0 vaginal cancer. I have undergone 6 major surgeries, chemo 4 times, and external and internal radiation. Both of these cancers are caused by HPV which is preventable now with the HPV vaccine. I wanted to share my story so that others would know the importance of this vaccine and how impactful gynecologic cancers are to a woman’s overall health. In addition to volunteering with ACS CAN, I am the Voices of Hope Co Lead for CGH region.
I am a single mother to two teenagers (prayers are welcome- for all of us!). I love reality tv and going to Disneyland. I am originally from Boston, and while I miss the energy of the east coast, I don’t miss the weather at all!
If you are wanting to learn more about the HPV vaccine and its benefits please reach out to me ana@reyes.net
Pearl Lakhani
Congressional District 17
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because my family has had experiences with cancer and I wish to do my part to help my community fight against cancer! I have been doing much advocacy work through my school as ASB Vice President, and Vice President of my school’s American Cancer Society Chapter, and newly as an ACS CAN member. Additionally, I have been working on breast cancer research as well!
I am a Junior at Cupertino High School, in which I have had various leadership positions such as 2026 class president! I love to travel and my favorite places to go are hawaii or italy! I have been playing club soccer for 10 years and I have been on my school’s varsity team for 3! I also love to read and my favorite book series is Harry Potter!
Ananya Manoj
San Jose, District 17
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because I want to make an impact in cancer advocacy, beyond research in the lab.
I am currently a freshman at UC Berkeley. I love community outreach and service, which has taken me across California and internationally to countries such as India and the Philippines. During my free time, I love to go on walks outside with my parents and spend time with my friends!
Daniel Carr - CA District 18 Downtown San Jose
It seems cancer has rushed into my life with no warning. In December 2023 both of my parents were diagnosed with cancer. My mom was diagnosed with endometrial cancer and my father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Both had their respective surgeries and have since recovered well. My father had to go through several rounds of chemotherapy and that was difficult to see.
I am also extremely privileged to work as a registered nurse in oncology and I see the extreme end of cancer in many people. I continue to volunteer for my patients and my parents.
I am also involved in research and I currently work with a team from Cal State East Bay on finding a new non-opioid drug for pain.
Anika Vittal
Los Altos - Congressional District 18
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because I want to make a real difference for patients with cancer along with their families. I hope to make to increase the accessibility to treatment and to protect cancer research.
My favorite hobby is to do art but I also participate in a research lab where we are currently researching inhibitors that affect diseases such as cancer or diabetes. I also volunteer at my local ACS Discovery Shop!
Claudia Perez-Favela
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because cancer has profoundly impacted my life. I lost my mom to ovarian cancer in 2013, and my maternal side of the family has a significant history of cancer. I was also diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2018. As a cervical cancer survivor, I know firsthand how vital early detection, treatment, and strong health policies are in saving lives.
Imperial - Congressional District 25
A little more about me: I’m a mother of three and a full-time student pursuing my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. I love reading, spending time with family and friends, and attending concerts.
Fun Fact: I’m a big fan of Asian dramas—K-dramas, C-dramas, you name it!
Stephanie Fajuri, Esq.
Los Angeles - Congressional District 30 (Friedman)
I have been volunteering with ACS CAN since 2017. I was initially connected to ACS CAN through my work as an attorney working for/leading the Cancer Legal Resource Center, but I also have lost family members to cancer and wanted to put my advocacy skills to help increase access to quality, affordable health care.
I am an attorney at a nonprofit agency in Los Angeles, and spend most of my free time cooking and/or baking, attending live music shows, traveling, going for walks in my neighborhood, and participating as a governing board member of the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council. I have a cat named Polola, who I adore!
Jean Kagan
Glendale - Congressional District 30
“Cancer” was the focus of my professional life for over 40 years and was also intertwined into my personal life for almost as long.
Professionally there was “distance”. But Cancer came up close and personal when my husband, a Radiation Oncologist, developed a rare Parotid Cancer. We fought for 5 years but lost our battle in 2016.
At this time there is no way to screen for a cancer like his. But even for those cancers for which there is good screening technology there are populations that don’t have access and the implications of this “delay” can be and often are profound.
I carry a proud mixed heritage.. Native American and Indigenous Mexican. What I know is that these populations are often underserved when it comes to timely screening and cancer care. Being part of ACS and ACS CAN affords me the opportunity to advocate for improved access to screening and state of the art cancer care for these populations
Cesar Gonzalez
Duarte, CA-31
I joined ACS-CAN in 2021 because I wanted to find ways to make an impact in the lives of patients with cancer beyond the bench. I am currently a PhD Candidate at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center where I conduct research on human brain development and brain cancers. I decided that science was the route for me when I started competing in science fairs as early as 2nd grade. My grandfather who helped raise me passed away from Stage 4 Lymphoma, which inspired me to pursue a career in research.
I am originally from the border city of El Paso, Texas but left to pursue my PhD. I enjoy hiking, baking, and cooking!
My research is currently funded by a generous grant from the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine, so thank YOU to all the volunteers and taxpayers who make it possible to conduct my research.
I have conducted research on different types of cancers including: Prostate, Ovarian, Liver, Breast and Brain Cancer. It is interesting to incorporate what I have learned from different types to further my own research/hypothesis.
Laura LaRose, NP
Vice State Lead Ambassador
Los Angeles - CA-32
I’ve been an ACS CAN volunteer since 2016 because as an oncology nurse practitioner I needed more ways to advocate for my patients. I also lost my dad to kidney cancer in 2007 and do this work in his honor.
I’ve been married almost 10 years and am a mom to a very spirited 5-year-old girl. I used to be a flying trapeze instructor/artist. I’m originally from CT and I do not miss the cold, but I do miss having a real autumn. My dream vacation is Japan. I love to bake and play board games! I’m a Disney Adult and an Elder Emo. I miss my cat who passed from cancer this year after 19 years together.
Andrew Vu
Los Angeles - Congressional District 32
I joined ACS CAN because of my grandmother, who passed away in 2023 after a sudden diagnosis of stage IV lung cancer. Working as a research assistant at the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, and as an EMT in LA County, I’m passionate about cancer research and advocacy, especially for underserved and underdiagnosed communities across Los Angeles.
I’m a USC graduate (‘24) who double majored in Biology and Spanish. Currently, I’m a rising medical student interested in pursuing a career as an oncologist.
Fun Fact: I’m a huge USC Trojans fan!
Virginia Escamilla
Eagle Rock, Los Angeles
CA 34- Rep. Jimmy Gomez
I started volunteering with ACS in 2004 through Relay for Life events in both the East Coast and then here in my hometown of LA. I was invited to ACS CAN in 2016. As a parent of two tweens at the time, I was driven to advocate for tobacco control in CA. I have been volunteering in my humble ways ever since. Like many, I have lost several loved ones to cancer and in their honor I continue to advocate for cancer patients and equitable healthcare. I have been an Early Childhood Education professional for over 30 years, I enjoy face painting, and am a die-hard fan of my boys in blue, the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Jamie Escoto
I’m a proud Chicagoan, now living in LA with my husband Henry & our boys Lorenzo & Moisés. We are a bilingual household: hablamos español.
Following in my footsteps, my kiddos are learning classical piano.
I joined ACS CAN in 2015 after I lost my dad to lung cancer. His passing inspired me to advocate for others affected by this awful disease.
I'm passionate about DEI & am part of ACS CAN's AAPI Volunteer Caucus. My Filipinx heritage & my family’s story of immigration are a big part of my story.
Growing up in Chicago, I was immersed in the city's house & techno music scene.
I’ve built a career in media & entertainment technology.
California State Lead Ambassador 2024-2025
Los Angeles, Congressional District 36
A few of my faves
Hidden gems in LA
Connect with me
Asseal Abdu
I volunteer with the ACS’s CAN because of my close experience with cancer through my mother’s diagnosis of Stage 4 Nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and witnessing firsthand the struggle she went through in chemo and radiation. I want to advocate and lobby for more funding for cancer research and programs that uplift, educate, and support cancer patients and their families. Through my clinical research, I had interacted with study participants struggling with tobacco usage, which has heavily impacted their quality of life, and I hope to also advocate for laws strengthening restrictions on tobacco usage and spreading awareness of the high risk factors for tobacco use and linkage to cancer.
Some fun facts about me is that I can solve a rubix cube in 2 minutes (not a very fast time for competitive cubing lol), can read and write in Braille, and have coded a chemistry game from scratch. My dream vacation would be anywhere with a lot of beautiful architecture!
Los Angeles, CA - Congressional District 36
Hello! I am a second year Neuroscience major and Evolutionary Medicine Minor at UCLA. I’m currently involved in clinical neuro-psychiatric research in translational neuroimaging at UCLA investigating the use of noninvasive brain stimulation via rTMS in people with tobacco use disorder, and am currently writing a paper on male versus female tobacco craving/satiety and functional connectivity differences between sexes in regards to tobacco usage.
Claire Xuan
Hi! I’m Claire, a current freshman at Flintridge Preparatory School, interested in oncology, specifically in detecting early stages of cancer early on non-invasively, and branching into neurodegenerative diseases, that of which includes cancer, and I hope by volunteering, advocating and learning more about cancer, I can be taught more knowledge & experiences from this community. ��I joined ACS because my aunt has repeatedly gotten breast cancer, and I have seen what devastating effects it can have beyond the body. My aunt is a survivor and I can be so grateful to her treatments but also hate them at the same time because of what they have done to her. I want to find further ways to reduce the chances of anyone having to brush with cancer as much as further without being invasive. ��To take action myself, I am involved in beginning research, having written a research paper on the effects of salinity on brine shrimp to test out my research skills. ��Outside of my passion for biology, I love singing! I have performed at Walt Disney Concert Hall, working with the LA Philharmonic and Gustavo Dudamel, the maestro of the LA Philharmonic, and performed for many charity events. I am also involved with my school’s debate team, such as qualifying for the Stanford Invitational, placing 3rd place at a SCDL League Tournament in Novice LD as it was my first time debating Lincoln-Douglas format.
Los Angeles, CA - Congressional District 36
feel free to reach out at: clairexuan0205@gmail.com!
John Schmitt
Manhattan Beach, CA-36
I have been volunteering with ACS since 2002 when a small group of us came together to form the Torrance Relay For Life. In our 23rd Relay this year we celebrated raising a total of over $3,000,000 for ACS. I joined ACS-CAN in 2018 to focus on legislative action and join the fight to secure funding for cancer research and awareness. My work in ACSCAN continues to be rewarding and I enjoy being a part of this important effort.
I am a prostate cancer survivor and credit the advances in treatment and patient care with my positive prognosis.
I grew up in the South Bay area of Los Angeles and graduated from CSULB and USC, becoming a high school teacher with the Torrance Unified School District. My career provided opportunities to serve as a High School Principal and Associate Superintendent. After retirement I spent 12 years consulting with southern California school district leadership teams.
Jen Metz, MPH (she/ella)
Culver City - Congressional District 37
Hey there! I’m a proud mom, wife, sister, daughter, and passionate public health professional with over 20 years of experience being an ACS Legislative Ambassador.
My heart is set on tackling cancer disparities, especially in underserved communities. I’ve had the privilege of working with countless amazing groups – from community organizations to schools, hospitals, and local businesses – all across California. I also love being a part of several cancer-related advisory committees, where I keep pushing for positive change.
Let’s connect and make an impact together!
David Russo
I became involved with ACS CAN because of my family's history with colorectal cancer and my deep commitment to advocating for underserved communities.
As part of the LGBTQ+ & Allies Engagement Group, I work to ensure that cancer prevention, screening, and care are accessible to everyone; especially those who often face barriers to healthcare.
In my professional life, I serve as the Executive Director of Cheeky Charity, a nonprofit dedicated to breaking the stigma around colorectal and anal cancer, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. I’m passionate about using advocacy, education, and storytelling to push for policy change and equitable healthcare access.
When I’m not working to make an impact, you can find me enjoying the vibrant Palm Springs community, hiking, driving cross country, and exploring new ways to connect people to causes that matter.
Let’s connect and keep the conversation going!
Palm Springs – CD41
Benjamin Blevins, Ed.D., J.D. *omg*
I became an ACS CAN volunteer after my diagnosis in late 2022 because I believe no one should ever have to choose between their health and financial wellness. As someone with a background in policy and advocacy, I know the power of legislation in shaping access to care. No one should have to worry more about medical bills than the fight ahead. Through my advocacy, I work to ensure that cancer patients and survivors have access to the care, resources, and policies needed to support them in their journey.
Point Loma, San Diego - 50th Congressional
Trinity Tran
San Diego - Congressional District 51
I am an ACS CAN volunteer because I wanted to help fight against cancer not only through research, but also through working to make treatments and care more accessible. Healthcare accessibility has grown to become great concern of mine.
I am a molecular biology student at UCLA and work in a research lab on a project focused on creating antibody-drug conjugates that target cancerous cells. I also volunteer with Cancer Support Community LA, which provides those impacted by cancer with helpful resources!
A fun fact about me is I love matcha!
Vyom Shah
~ Los Angeles, California
Hi, my name is Vyom, and I’m currently a junior at Viewpoint High School. My interest in oncology began after the loss of two of my grandparents to cancer, which inspired me to take action in raising awareness and supporting others affected by this disease. I founded a cancer awareness club at my school, through which I’ve led fundraising initiatives and advocacy campaigns. I also volunteer with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) because I’m deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer. Helping others is a core part of who I am, and I hope to continue making a difference in the lives of patients and families affected by this illness.
Kiley Murakami
About Me:�I recently graduated from UC Berkeley with a major in Molecular & Cell Biology and a minor in Health & Wellness. I am very passionate about health equity and cancer advocacy.
�Why I Volunteer with ACS CAN:�After losing my dad to adrenal cancer, I want to help amplify the voices of cancer patients and families. ACS CAN gives me a way to advocate for better policies and support systems.
�Dream Vacation Spots:�Korea & Paris
�How I Spend My Free Time:�Playing/watching basketball, discovering new music, watching TV shows, going to the gym & spending time with loved ones
Orange County — CA-45
Prairie Park
I was diagnosed with Triple Positive Breast Cancer in September 2024. Upon diagnosis, I found that there is a need for more representation and advocacy for Asian American cancer patients and research. Although I am currently still in active treatment, I’ve been compelled to do something about it. I’m here to be a voice, �not just a statistic.
�I have 2 full-time gigs. I am the COO of our family as the mom to 2 little rascals. I also work as a Content Editor and Copywriter by trade. I love binge-watching TV, so if you ever have a good show rec I’m here for it!
A few of my favorite things:�Dodgers, Disney, & Del Taco
LA/OC; 38th Congressional District