YOU’RE INVITED!
Join our free virtual conference:
April 19th 9 am - 3 pm PST
SIGN UP to attend live or watch later!
Hear from both patients and providers as they share their stories and work, offering a unique dual perspective and an inside look at the motivations driving progress in this space.
You wont want to miss it! 
Conference Run of Show
See more details on our guest speakers below!
Guest speakers
Dr. Alba Azola
Alba Azola, MD is an Assistant Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Pediatrics and a member of the Chronic Fatigue Clinic at Johns Hopkins. She helped establish and co-direct the Hopkins Post-Acute COVID-19 Team and focuses her clinical and research work on Long COVID and ME/CFS. She is a and a co-investigator on multiple NIH, PCORI, and CDC-funded studies, contributing to national guidance on Long COVID care.
Physician, Researcher, Chronic Illness Advocate 
maritsa christoforou
Maritsa is a senior at George Washington University, majoring in Neuroscience. After developing symptoms at age 15 and being diagnosed with ME/CFS at 19, she became involved in research at the Johns Hopkins Chronic Fatigue Clinic, co-authoring publications. Her own experience with neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (nTOS) following successful bilateral surgery, inspired her to share her story at this conference.
Patient, George Washington Neuroscience Bachelors Candidate, Aspiring MD student, ResearcherPatient, Stanford Varsity Swimmer & Graduate, Aspiring MD Student, Dysunderstood Intern
SAMANTHA PEARSON
Sam’s experience with dysautonomia after a COVID infection in 2023 inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. She is passionate about advocating for patients, raising awareness, and contributing to research and education on post-viral illnesses.
Patient, Army Veteran, MBA Candidate at Michigan Ross School of Business ARMANI GUERRA
Armani Guerra is a former U.S. Army officer who developed Long COVID after a mild infection in 2023. A former athlete, he experienced severe decline, becoming apartment-bound and developing heart failure. He went on to pursue an MBA at the University of Michigan, leveraging the platform to advocate for patients with infection-associated chronic conditions. In October 2025, this work culminated in the launch of the IACC Case Competition, where teams from top U.S. academic institutions pitched innovative business solutions to address these conditions. Following graduation, he plans to enter the pharmaceutical industry to continue advocating for patient populations like his own.
Cate Siniscalchi
Patient, Chronic Illness Advocate & InfluencerCate is a chronic illness advocate who has spent over a decade navigating a complex medical journey with misdiagnoses multiple rare conditions. Living with POTS, EDS, SMA, MALS, Nutcracker Syndrome, SIH, MCAS, and other diagnoses, she knows firsthand how challenging and isolating the healthcare system can be. She shares her story to raise awareness, validate others, and advocate for the chronic illness community.
Tannah Broman & SIMon Holzapfel
Simon Holzapfel and Tannah Broman are faculty members in the College of Health Solutions at Arizona State University with extensive experience in exercise science, kinesiology, and health education. Dr. Holzapfel, who earned his PhD in Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Wellness from ASU, focuses his research on adaptive and clinical exercise interventions, particularly assisted cycling therapy, and their impact on cognitive and motor function in clinical populations. Broman, who holds degrees in psychology and exercise and wellness, is known for her engaging, project based teaching style and long standing commitment to student success. Together, they bring a strong emphasis on evidence based practice, experiential learning, and inclusive approaches to movement and health.