Category: Volunteer Spotlight

It is with deep appreciation for the time, commitment, and passion of our dedicated advocates and volunteers that Feeding Matters is launching a monthly Q & A series. They help with events, participate on committees, and coach in our Power of Two program. The advocate and volunteer spotlights will share the stories of our growing network of change agents, the driving force behind our vision to create a world where children with pediatric feeding disorder will thrive.

We are lucky to have a volunteer like Elisabeth Scott. She is fun, energetic, and eager to learn more about pediatric feeding disorder and how to better engage the community and families. No matter what the volunteer project, whether it’s a onetime project or ongoing outreach, Elisabeth is always there to help out (and bring more volunteers).

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m from Sacramento, CA. I moved to Glendale, AZ in 2016 to complete my master’s degree at Midwestern University for Speech Language Pathology. I have loved my time in Arizona, and I hope to continue my career endeavors in the Phoenix area after my graduation in May.

2. How long have you been a volunteer with Feeding Matters?
I have been a volunteer with Feeding Matters since December 2016!

3. In which volunteer activities have you participated?
My first opportunity to volunteer was at the Feeding Matters Conference held in Phoenix. I was warmly welcomed into the Feeding Matters community and learned so much from this conference about the care provided for children with pediatric feeding disorder. I also lead a booth at the Arizona Speech-Hearing-Association Conference (ArSHA), where I was able to inform many speech-language pathologists about Feeding Matters mission. Lastly, I have been volunteering at the Coyotes games to raise money during the 50/50 raffle, which has been a lot of fun!

4. What motivated you to become involved?
Through my schooling to become a speech-language pathologist, I have been educated about pediatric feeding development, pediatric swallowing, and sensory processing disorders. Pediatric feeding is an area that has been close to my heart because I believe every parent should be granted the opportunity to bond with their child at meal time, whether that includes breast feeding or sitting around the table enjoying dinner. Growing up, dinnertime at my house was crucial to my development and the person I am today. Sitting down for dinner every night gave me an opportunity to grow close to my parents and brothers. No parent should have to miss out on this opportunity due to feeding being a stressful time. Pediatric feeding is a tight niche for speech-language pathologists, and the education and expertise of solving pediatric feeding disorder greatly interests me. I hope to become a feeding therapist that can make a positive influence on children and families with pediatric feeding disorder.

5. What has been your favorite part of volunteering with Feeding Matters?
My favorite part about volunteering with Feeding Matters is becoming immersed in a community that cares and understands the “pediatric feeding world.” I love being able to share my passion about pediatric feeding disorder with others at events, and gain new knowledge from family members or other caretakers.

6. In your opinion, what sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations?
Feeding Matters connects children who struggle to eat and their families to a community where they can feel safe. Feeding Matters is dedicated to providing resources, including a feeding questionnaire, in order to help identify and provide support for children who struggle with pediatric feeding disorder. Feeding Matters values the providers of children with pediatric feeding disorder, who can sometimes be overlooked. There is solely no other organization that values this specific population of people in an organized and professional manner! I feel lucky to be involved in such a wonderful organization!

It is with deep appreciation for the time, commitment, and passion of our dedicated advocates and volunteers that Feeding Matters is launching a monthly Q & A series. They help with events, participate on committees, and coach in our Power of Two program. The advocate and volunteer spotlights will share the stories of our growing network of change agents, the driving force behind our vision to create a world where children with pediatric feeding disorder will thrive.

Bianca Roe has been instrumental in our volunteer outreach program. She is always willing to offer her knowledge as a registered dietician to help our families who are in desperate need (even with her busy school schedule).

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A native New Zealander, or “Kiwi”, I grew up in California and moved to Tucson in 2010 where I graduated from the University of Arizona. As a childhood cancer survivor, food was my solace and nutrition was the most reasonable method to manage the chronic pain. Driven by this personal experience, I became a Registered Dietitian and specialized in clinical pediatrics working for the Children’s Clinics for Rehabilitative Services and Mealtime Connections, LLC. both in Tucson, AZ. My time at both can be described as nothing short of invaluable and inspirational. A large part of my caseload was partnering with feeding specialists to support children and families with feeding difficulties. It was within this time that I realized I wanted my graduate studies to allow me to be able to offer families more and thus I applied and was accepted into NAU’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate program located in Downtown Phoenix.

2. How long have you been a volunteer with Feeding Matters?
I connected with Feeding Matters when I relocated to Phoenix in August of 2017.

3. In which volunteer activities have you participated?
So far, I had the opportunity to help out at the big Annual Feeding Matters Community Luncheon and work to connect Feeding Matters with available grad students when volunteer events come up.

4. What motivated you to become involved?
While I love my program, I very much miss patient care and communicating with families. I met with Feeding Matters the week I moved to Phoenix and fell in love with the organization and the work they do to support families and facilitate education on feeding related issues. Feeding Matters is a way for me to stay involved in the feeding community and to offer support and help when I can.

5. What has been your favorite part of volunteering with Feeding Matters?
The people! Where else could you surround yourself with so many incredible individuals who are kind, smart, and well-spoken advocates for an underrepresented population! And I get to support families who need resources while surrounding myself with such inspirational people? PERFECT!

6. In your opinion, what sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations?
Feeding Matters has taken on a monumental task of working to support everyday families while also pushing for a change in healthcare, both from the provider level and policy level. They are dynamic in adjusting to the needs of families and the current social environment and are arguably pursuing a much more challenging mission than if they were to simply offer financial support. Feeding Matters is a force of good in the world with long-term goals that will change lives.

It is with deep appreciation for the time, commitment, and passion of our dedicated advocates and volunteers that Feeding Matters is launching a monthly Q & A series. They help with events, participate on committees, and coach in our Power of Two program. The advocate and volunteer spotlights will share the stories of our growing network of change agents, the driving force behind our vision to create a world where children with pediatric feeding disorder will thrive.

We are pleased to announce that Kim Lechner, is our newest Family Advisory Council member. Kim’s professional and personal experience with pediatric feeding disorder is a huge asset to Feeding Matters. She gives so much to others and is always willing to support another family in need.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a parent of a beautiful, smart, and spunky four-year-old girl. Our daughter, Evelyn, has a pediatric feeding disorder. My husband and I went through many excruciating months of not knowing why our little baby wouldn’t or seemingly couldn’t eat. We later learned that she was born with a paralyzed vocal cord and was unable to protect her airway when swallowing. Evie had an ng tube placed in her nose when she was just eight weeks old and a g-tube surgically placed in her tummy when she was four months old. Our family has been in feeding therapy ever since. We’ve been blessed with amazing doctors, nurses, therapists, and teachers who have supported us in this journey, and Evie is doing incredibly well now. She eats about fifty percent of her calories by mouth, but she continues to need supplemental nutrition by tube to support her growth and development. We know that the day will come when she will no longer need her feeding tube. We will absolutely celebrate that milestone; but for now, we see her tube as a lifesaving intervention, and we are incredibly grateful for the nourishment it allows.

2. How long have you been a volunteer with Feeding Matters?
Two and a half years.

3. In which volunteer activities have you participated?
I have served as a one to one parent coach/mentor (Power of Two) for families of children with pediatric feeding disorder.

4. What motivated you to become involved?
I have always been passionate about supporting families and children with special needs. As a school psychologist, counselor, and special education administrator, I’ve worked with many children with complex medical needs, some of whom relied on feeding tubes. However, nothing I had experienced in my professional life could have prepared me for the fear, anxiety, and helplessness I felt as a mother of a child who could not eat. Thankfully, I was able to build relationships with other families of tube fed children. It helped to know that we were not alone.

I started volunteering with Feeding Matters because I recognized that so many families were living in isolation and struggling with the same fear and anxiety that I experienced in our early years (and continue to experience some days). Given my personal and professional background, I hoped that I might be able to offer these families resources, support, and encouragement.

5. What has been your favorite part of volunteering with Feeding Matters?
I have greatly appreciated the families with whom I’ve worked. It’s truly been a privilege to enter into their world and listen to their unique stories.

6. In your opinion, what sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations?
Feeding Matters is an incredible organization, and I’m so grateful for the support they provide to families. Their mission is bold and beautiful, and I appreciate their emphasis on identification, research, and promoting collaborative care. I am most impressed by their efforts to inform and engage both physicians AND families because I believe that collaboration is essential to move the field forward. Thank you, Feeding Matters, for all you do!!

It is with deep appreciation for the time, commitment, and passion of our dedicated advocates and volunteers that Feeding Matters is launching a monthly Q & A series. They help with events, participate on committees, and coach in our Power of Two program. The advocate and volunteer spotlights will share the stories of our growing network of change agents, the driving force behind our vision to create a world where children with pediatric feeding disorder will thrive.

Cathy Humphrey has been a parent coach since 2012 and a member of the Family Advisory Council since 2016. She shares her knowledge and compassion as a parent coach, sitting on committees and has contributed to our open source blog.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m from New Mexico and have lived in Wyoming, Oregon, Washington State, and Idaho before moving to Phoenix in 2001. I’ve worked for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management since 1981 as a geologist, a planning and NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) lead, national training coordinator, and currently am a collaboration specialist. I’m married to Manolis Kritsotakis, a retired sailor from Crete, Greece. We met while my sister and I were on vacation in the Greek islands. Our daughter, Maria, is sweet, beautiful, complicated, an only child, and a tremendous joy to be around. She’s now 13, is in 8th grade, is a cheerleader on the only certified Sparkle Effect team in Arizona at Hillcrest Middle School. The Sparkle Effect is a national organization that works to integrate students with high special needs on to cheer teams. Maria was born with hydrocephalus, which caused significant brain damage, resulting in a lovely young lady with cerebral palsy who can’t talk or walk or see or chew and swallow too well. In addition to volunteering with Feeding Matters, I’m also a volunteer with Raising Special Kids and represent parents of children with disabilities on the Arizona Special Education Advisory Panel, established in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

2. In which volunteer activities have you participated?
I’m part of the Power of Two and I’m on the Family Advisory Council. I’ve helped with a couple of conferences, I’ve gone to several conferences. I’ve taken training, including when it was P.O.P.S.I.C.L.E., we’ve gone to hockey and baseball games with tickets for volunteers, we’ve been a guest at the BatCave as nominated by Feeding Matters.

3. What motivated you to become involved?
Of course, like most of the volunteers (I assume), I got involved because of my daughter having feeding issues since birth. The classes I took were very good, high quality, and had a similar philosophy as I did (don’t force feed, start with any success no matter how small and build upon that). There was no shaming (blended diet vs formula, breast milk vs formula, g-tube vs no g-tube), it was a very supportive environment. I don’t remember exactly when or why I started volunteering. I’m sure seeing Chris in action had something to do with it – her professionalism and integrity. Everyone has always been so warm, welcoming, thankful, and supportive. All these things are attractive to me and make me want to give more. Of course, being a volunteer is therapeutic and helps me as much as, I hope, I’m helping the other parents/ caregivers I talk to.

4. What has been your favorite part of volunteering with Feeding Matters?
The relationships, the support, the opportunities (tickets to professional games, going to the BatCave was so cool), but most of all I really enjoy connecting with other parents and being able to share some of the experiences our family has had. Hopefully being able to give another mom (usually it’s a mom) permission to relax, and to feel ok about what they’re doing, and maybe giving them a few ideas of different things to try. I’ve met some of the parents and been able to connect face-to-face, which adds a different dimension than just connecting on the phone or by email or text. It’s been gratifying to speak with people from different cultures and different areas of the country or even from other countries to brainstorm things for them to try with their children.

5. In your opinion, what sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations?
It’s a small and mighty organization. They are very professional, caring, striving for acceptance in the medical field, reaching out to medical professionals, not just parents. I appreciate the non-judgmental stance they have. I appreciate Chris, and the other employees – they’re all great! They have very high integrity. Integrity, honesty, professionalism, and striving for excellence, striving to do better, to help more kids and more parents– those are all very important to me.

It is with a deep appreciation for the time, commitment, and passion of our dedicated advocates and volunteers that Feeding Matters is launching a monthly Q & A series. They help with events, participate on committees, and coach in our Power of Two program. The advocate and volunteer spotlights will share the stories of our growing network of change agents, the driving force behind our vision to create a world where children with pediatric feeding disorder will thrive.

Cuyler Romeo’s passion for identifying and treating children with pediatric feeding disorders directly aligns with our mission. A longtime supporter, Cuyler recently transitioned from volunteer to Feeding Matters’ director of strategic initiatives – helping us bring awareness to pediatric feeding disorder on a national level.

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

I am an occupational therapist, board certified feeding, eating and swallowing specialist, lactation consultant and huge supporter of functional, enjoyable mealtimes. I am a Texan by upbringing, but now reside in Tucson, AZ. I also provide CEUs and customized trainings on feeding through my own LLC, Romeo Morgan Consulting and have recently entered the non-profit world as the President of the Institute of Perception-Action Approach, which serves children impacted by movement disorders. I am married with three children, Gwen and Bree who are 7 and Jax who is 8. We are a super busy family that loves nothing more than being at home. I also love great food, tending to life-long friendships and sleeping in, which means 6 am at this phase of my life! I also am fiercely loyal, believe “being funny” is a huge compliment, and eat way to much candy.

How long have you been a volunteer with Feeding Matters?

I have been a longtime supporter of Feeding Matters as a feeding specialist. I was placed on the Strategic Development Committee for AIM (the Advocacy & Early Intervention Model) over a year ago and feel so blessed to contribute more directly to this amazing organization.

In which volunteer activities have you participated?

I have provided feedback during the drafting of the Feeding Questionnaire, attended annual meetings, and served on the Strategic Education Committee. As a committee, we constructed an educational presentation on early identification of pediatric feeding disorders directed at professionals in our community. I’ve presented a case study at a Feeding Matters meeting, gave a Lunch and Learn to CRS in Tucson on behalf of Feeding Matters and am looking forward to filming video shorts of our presentation to give easy access to anyone who wishes to know more about feeding challenges.

What motivated you to become involved with Feeding Matters?

As a feeding specialist, I have been emotionally and professionally impacted by every family with whom I have worked. I recognize that every family needs to feel successful when feeding their child regardless of how that nourishment is given. Feeding Matters provides an avenue for families to find acceptance and support. But this organization also encourages professionals to connect so we can strengthen our intellectual and emotional reserves and support our families optimally.

What has been your favorite part of volunteering with Feeding Matters?

I loved interfacing with a wider group of feeding professionals. I believe diversity breeds ingenuity. Our committee includes different disciplines and abilities; I enjoy learning from the members. It is so rewarding to unite over a shared cause.

What sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations?

I believe Feeding Matters has harnessed the power of combined talent beautifully. The organization has the strength to change how pediatric feeding disorders are diagnosed, treated, and viewed by the community at large. I believe the ability to transform passion into action sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations.

It is with a deep appreciation for the time, commitment, and passion of our dedicated advocates and volunteers that Feeding Matters is launching a monthly Q & A series. They help with events, participate on committees, and coach in our Power of Two program. The advocate and volunteer spotlights will share the stories of our growing network of change agents, the driving force behind our vision to create a world where children with pediatric feeding disorder will thrive.

Donna Black has been a loyal volunteer since 2015. She is always willing to lend a hand, no matter what the project, volunteer shift (early morning hours) and location. Her professionalism is appreciated on all levels.

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

I live in Scottsdale, AZ and have been married to my soul mate, Randy, for 31 years. We have two sons, Joshua who is 29 and Spencer who is 27. We also have two beautiful grandsons, Joshua Jr. who is 8 and Cody who is 5. My husband and I love to just hang out together. I work at a wonderful university, Grand Canyon University, helping individuals pursue their education.

How long have you been a volunteer with Feeding Matters?

I discovered Feeding Matters in 2016 and have felt drawn to them and the mission they have to help kids and adults alike combat the challenging issue of PFD.

In which volunteer activities have you participated?

I have been a table captain for the 2016 and 2017 Feeding Matters Community Luncheons, assisted with attendee check in at the 2016 SOFFI Training Workshop and 2017 International PFD Conference.

What motivated you to become involved with Feeding Matters?

My youngest grandson was born with Cystic Fibrosis and in my initial meeting with Feeding Matters I discovered that he fit into the area they were discussing. Cody was very fussy with what he would eat when he was about 2 and it is really important for him to get as many calories as possible to help him grow. When I met with Feeding Matters, I discovered that it was an actual medical issue that may be preventing him from eating certain things. This definitely opened up my eyes and made me more aware of the things I could do to ensure that Cody and other kids like him get needed help and guidance to be healthy.

What has been your favorite part of volunteering with Feeding Matters?

Meeting the individuals that have been faced with helping a loved one overcome or just adapt to the challenges of pediatric feeding disorder.

What sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations?

I feel that the focus they put on not only the people suffering from pediatric feeding disorder but the family members is what sets them apart. They are a support system that seems to be never ending and they are diligent in advocating to get pediatric feeding disorder recognized medically so that those who suffer can get the help they need.

It is with a deep appreciation for the time, commitment, and passion of our dedicated advocates and volunteers that Feeding Matters is launching a monthly Q & A series. They help with events, participate on committees, and coach in our Power of Two program. The advocate and volunteer spotlights will share the stories of our growing network of change agents, the driving force behind our vision to create a world where children with pediatric feeding disorders will thrive.

In addition to his work as a developmental-behavioral pediatrician with University Health System in San Antonio, Texas and as an adjunct professor of pediatrics at UT Health San Antonio, Dr. Jaime Phalen graciously volunteers his time to serve as Feeding Matters’ medical director. In the role, Dr. Phalen assists with the ongoing expansion of our Medical Professional Council to facilitate deeper levels of educational opportunities and to provide a platform for sharing research.

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

I grew up in Chandler, AZ and graduated from ASU with a BS in biology in 1987. The following year, I married Melissa LaVoy and joined the US Air Force. Our oldest daughter, Devyn, was born at our first assignment, at Torrejón Air Base, Madrid, Spain. Our second daughter, Brooke, was born while I attended medical school at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland. I graduated in 1996, then attended pediatric residency at Keesler AFB, Biloxi, Mississippi until 1999. From then through 2002, I was a general pediatrician at Sheppard Air Force Base, Wichita Falls, Texas. From there, we moved to Denver, Colorado, where I attended developmental-behavioral pediatrics fellowship at The Children’s Hospital. After graduating in 2005, we moved to San Antonio, Texas, where I was stationed at JBSA Lackland. I remained there until retiring in 2016, after 28 years of service. My duties included being chief of several interdisciplinary teams, teaching medical students and pediatric residents, and serving as the Chief Consultant for Developmental Pediatrics to the AF Surgeon General. In 2016, I began working for University Health System, in San Antonio, as their sole developmental pediatrician. My personal interests include collecting and cellaring fine wine, listening to music and attending concerts, traveling with my wife, and enjoying her amazing cooking.

How long have you been a volunteer with Feeding Matters?

Since 2014

In which volunteer activities have you participated?

PFD Alliance (formerly the Medical Professional Council) and the International Pediatric Feeding Conference. Most recently, I’ve volunteered as Feeding Matters’ first medical director

What motivated you to become involved with Feeding Matters?

A pediatric gastroenterologist who was on the MPC read an article on pediatric feeding disorder that I published in Pediatrics in Review in 2013. He reached out to me to tell me about the organization.

What has been your favorite part of volunteering with Feeding Matters?

Working with a great group of professionals and parents who have a passion for children with pediatric feeding disorder.

What sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations?

Founded by parents, Feeding Matters has always involved medical professionals. This unique arrangement fosters open communication and mutual respect. As a result, we all learn from each other. More importantly, we help children with PFD and their families.

It is with a deep appreciation for the time, commitment, and passion of our dedicated advocates and volunteers that Feeding Matters is launching a monthly Q & A series. They help with events, participate on committees, and coach in our Power of Two program. The advocate and volunteer spotlights will share the stories of our growing network of change agents, the driving force behind our vision to create a world where children with pediatric feeding disorders will thrive.

Ashley Collier contacted us through her daughter’s feeding therapist back in 2016 and has been active with FM ever since, both as a parent coach in our power of two program as well as being a presenter in our virtual workshop “Fostering Collaborative Care: Parent and Provider Perspectives”.

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

Like, my life has been overtaken by three little people? More seriously—-I am a North Carolina native and enjoy vacations in the mountains and at the beach. Several years ago I stepped away from practicing law to focus on my daughter. And just when we thought we had parenting all figured out, we adopted twin boys from Haiti.

How long have you been a volunteer with Feeding Matters?

About two years.

In which volunteer activities have you participated?

I have been on the board for Family Support Network, a local non-profit that assists families in the NICU and those with a child with a disability; and I parent mentor for Feeding Matters. I organize TOPSoccer, and help host I Can Bike, I Can Swim and Constraint Induced Movement Therapy camps.

What motivated you to become involved with Feeding Matters?

My daughter has severe feeding issues that were not properly diagnosed until she was 3. The lack of professional awareness and parent resources was frustrating. I want to help others who are on the same path as my family.

What has been your favorite part of volunteering with Feeding Matters?

I enjoy connecting with parents from around the country, in various stages of the feeding journey. I wish we had had the same access and support and I refuse to let our journey go without meaning. Being able to identify with a group that is just like me is reassuring and validating.

What sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations?

The national reach and broad approach makes Feeding Matters unique. Understanding that feeding delay is complicated, and so too is its professional treatment, makes for a powerful and necessary combination that Feeding Matters is addressing on every level.

It is with a deep appreciation for the time, commitment, and passion of our dedicated advocates and volunteers that Feeding Matters is launching a monthly Q & A series. They help with events, participate on committees, and coach in our Power of Two program. The advocate and volunteer spotlights will share the stories of our growing network of change agents, the driving force behind our vision to create a world where children with pediatric feeding disorders will thrive.

Jill Maruca is a loyal and professional volunteer. She also has been instrumental in helping us develop community relationships. We know we can rely on CopperPoint employees to help us with our annual luncheon projects.

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

As CopperPoint’s Community Engagement Coordinator, I get to interact with employees at all levels as well as community organizations. It’s an honor to work for a company that cares about community and encourages involvement by volunteering, corporate matching, and sponsorships. I love connecting people and causes to make a difference for others. I enjoy volunteering with Feeding Matters, Ronald McDonald House, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Treasures 4 Teachers.

How long have you been a volunteer with Feeding Matters?

I got involved I think two years ago, when I learned of Feeding Matters through a friend. Her son faces feeding challenges and she found her way to Feeding Matters and the resources they offer.

In which volunteer activities have you participated?

I organize volunteer activities at CopperPoint, so we have stuffed invitations and mailers for Feeding Matters, and I personally have volunteered at the annual community luncheon for two years.

What motivated you to become involved with Feeding Matters?

These families face such a basic issue with their children, and I know from my friend it can take a lot of time and trial to find something that helps. Feeding Matters is such a support and resource for families to know they are not alone, and to connect with services that may help them.

What has been your favorite part of volunteering with Feeding Matters?

The staff and volunteers are always so friendly and great to work with! They are well organized and appreciative of the help.

What sets Feeding Matters apart from other organizations?

They offer a variety of options for volunteers to get involved, and many volunteers are families who are or have been challenged with feeding issues in their own families. Our employees have enjoyed putting the mailings together, so their creativity to find projects is great, too!