Our Team

At Cellular Health Foundation, our board is made up of a professional team. We have a diverse team of researchers, educators, administrators, and collaborators, all working together to improve well-being and education.

We are passionate about making a difference in cellular health. Join us in meeting the board dedicated to creating a healthier future for everyone.

Miriam Franzen

President

Miriam “Mimi” Franzen is a healthcare operations executive and entrepreneur known for her compassionate leadership and ability to build strong, mission-driven teams within clinical research and medical services organizations. Mimi currently serves as Chief Operating Officer of Clinical Research Partners and is a partner in Infusion Solutions and Vita Pure IV, where she works closely with leadership and clinical staff to strengthen operations, support growth, and elevate patient-centered care.

With over 30 years of executive and entrepreneurial experience, Mimi brings a thoughtful blend of strategic insight, operational excellence, and people-first leadership to the healthcare space. She specializes in building and guiding high-performing teams, improving clinical workflows, and creating scalable systems that support quality outcomes, compliance, and long-term sustainability.

Mimi is respected for her ability to connect vision with execution, helping organizations and individuals grow with clarity and purpose. As a mentor and coach, she supports executives, clinicians, and business owners through team development and leadership alignment, fostering cultures rooted in collaboration, accountability, and care.

Beyond her professional roles, Mimi is actively involved in philanthropic initiatives throughout the Dominican Republic, supporting community-based efforts focused on health, wellness, and empowerment. Her work is driven by a deep belief that strong leadership, compassion, and thoughtful systems can create lasting impact in both healthcare and the communities it serves.

William Canada

Treasurer

William Canada is an esteemed business entrepreneur who has made a significant impact as a leader in the business, banking, and community spheres. With a wealth of experience and a passion for making a difference, he has left an indelible mark on the organizations he has been involved with.

Throughout his illustrious career, William has held key leadership positions on various bank boards, contributing his expertise and strategic insights to shape the financial landscape. With a keen understanding of the intricacies of the banking industry, he has played a pivotal role in guiding these institutions towards success, navigating economic fluctuations, and ensuring sound governance.

Beyond his contributions in the corporate world, William is widely regarded as a respected community leader. He has devoted his time and resources to uplift and strengthen the communities in which he resides. Whether through philanthropic initiatives, mentorship programs, or grassroots projects, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the lives of those around him.

William's leadership extends beyond the boardroom and the community. He is known for his entrepreneurial spirit, having founded and led multiple successful businesses throughout his career. His ability to identify opportunities, take calculated risks, and build sustainable enterprises has earned him recognition as a trailblazer in the business world.

Despite his age, William continues to be actively engaged in his endeavors. His wisdom, experience, and strategic mindset make him a sought-after advisor and mentor for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. He generously shares his knowledge, offering guidance and support to the next generation of professionals.

Moreover, William is a proponent of lifelong learning and personal growth. He believes in the importance of adapting to changing times, embracing new technologies, and staying ahead of industry trends. His curiosity and open-mindedness have been instrumental in his ability to navigate evolving business landscapes successfully.

Recognized for his exceptional leadership skills, William has received numerous accolades and honors throughout his career. However, his true satisfaction comes from the positive impact he has had on the people and organizations he has served.

As a business entrepreneur and community leader, William serves as an inspiration to both young and seasoned professionals alike. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership, community engagement, and a lifelong commitment to excellence.

Dr. Farrah Bunch

Secretary

Dr. Farrah Bunch is a renowned figure in the field of health, wellness, and community engagement in the Philippines. She is a licensed medical doctor who specializes in alternative and integrative medicine. With a strong commitment to promoting holistic health practices,

Dr. Farrah has become a prominent advocate for natural and non-toxic treatments for various health conditions.

Dr. Farrah gained recognition for her innovative approach to cancer treatment. She developed the "Farrah Protocol," a comprehensive treatment regimen that focuses on strengthening the immune system and utilizing natural therapies to combat cancer. Her protocol incorporates a combination of nutrition, detoxification, supplementation, and other alternative therapies to support the body's healing process.

Beyond her expertise in cancer treatment, Dr. Farrah actively promotes preventive healthcare and overall wellness. She emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and the use of natural remedies to maintain optimal health. She believes in empowering individuals to take control of their well-being through education and informed choices.

In addition to her medical practice, Dr. Farrah is actively involved in community outreach programs. She organizes health and wellness seminars, conducts medical missions, and provides free consultations to underserved communities. Her goal is to make quality healthcare accessible to all, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Dr. Farrah's contributions to the field of health and wellness have garnered attention both locally and internationally. She has been featured in various media outlets and has received numerous awards and recognition for her groundbreaking work.

Overall, Dr. Farrah Bunch is a respected medical professional who has dedicated her career to promoting health, wellness, and community engagement in the Philippines. Her commitment to natural and holistic approaches to healthcare has positively impacted the lives of many individuals seeking alternative treatments and preventive measures.

Constance “Connie” Harman

Board Member

Constance “Connie” Harman brings more than three decades of operational excellence, research leadership, and community service to the Cellular Health Foundation Board. She retired from Philip Morris/Altria after 32.5 years of distinguished service, during which she held progressively responsible roles across Quality Assurance, Safety, Research & Development, and corporate philanthropy.

During her tenure, Connie served as a Quality Assurance Auditor, Safety Representative, and United Way Campaign Coordinator, demonstrating a strong commitment to compliance, employee well-being, and community engagement. She later advanced into Research and Development, where she earned her EMT certification and played a pivotal role in new brand development and testing.

In R&D, Connie was entrusted with establishing and managing a dedicated testing laboratory—an emerging and previously unexplored function within the organization. She independently designed and implemented all study protocols, including participant qualifications, informed consent processes, data collection methods, and product procurement. She also developed and led a 30-member testing panel, overseeing every operational and scientific aspect of the program. The initiative was highly successful and directly contributed to the launch of a new product brand.

Beyond her professional achievements, Connie actively contributed to Philip Morris’ corporate culture and service initiatives, participating on the company bowling team, attending recognition and appreciation events, and volunteering through company-sponsored efforts such as Special Olympics and Habitat for Humanity home builds.

Since retirement, Connie has continued her dedication to service and lifelong learning through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, completing extensive training in support of public safety and maritime education. She is also deeply passionate about preventive health and nutrition. An avid organic gardener, Connie promotes healthy living through sustainable food practices and has built relationships with local beef and poultry farmers to source organic, responsibly raised food for her family and community.

Connie’s unique blend of scientific rigor, operational leadership, community service, and commitment to healthy living aligns seamlessly with the mission of the Cellular Health Foundation.

Tom Skordas

Director

Tom Skordas is a highly accomplished business entrepreneur who has made a significant impact in the restaurant and catering hospitality industry while also serving as a dedicated community leader. With a passion for culinary excellence and a commitment to community development.Throughout his career, Tom has been at the forefront of the restaurant and catering industry.

Starting from humble beginnings, in 1975 he built his first restaurant establishment from the ground up, showcasing his culinary skills and dedication to exceptional service. Over the years, he has expanded his ventures, successfully establishing a renowned brand known for its delectable cuisine, warm ambiance, and unparalleled hospitality.

As a respected figure in the hospitality industry, Tom has not only created thriving businesses but has also demonstrated a deep commitment to the betterment of his community. He actively engages in various community initiatives, supporting local organizations, and spearheading projects that contribute to the overall well-being and growth of the community.

Recognized for his leadership qualities, Tom has served on the boards of community organizations, utilizing his expertise to shape impactful programs and initiatives. He understands the importance of collaboration and fostering strong relationships, and he actively works with stakeholders to drive positive change.

Despite his age, Tom continues to be a driving force in his industry and community. His extensive knowledge, industry insights, and innovative mindset have allowed him to adapt to changing consumer demands and emerging trends. He remains dedicated to providing exceptional dining experiences, staying abreast of the latest culinary advancements, and continuously delighting his customers.

Moreover, Tom is deeply committed to mentoring and inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs within the hospitality industry. He believes in sharing his expertise and experiences to help others succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Whether through speaking engagements, workshops, or mentorship programs, he generously imparts his knowledge to the next generation of hospitality professionals.

Throughout his journey, Tom has received numerous accolades and awards for his contributions to the industry and community. However, his greatest satisfaction comes from the positive impact he has had on the lives of his employees, customers, and the community as a whole.

As a business entrepreneur in the restaurant and catering hospitality industry and a dedicated community leader, Tom stands as a shining example of passion, resilience, and leadership. His dedication to culinary excellence, community engagement, and nurturing future talent serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the profound impact that one individual can have on their industry and community.

Allison Van Treeck

Director

Allison Van Treeck is a seasoned real estate investor and entrepreneur with a multidisciplinary background spanning banking, technology, and executive leadership. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management with academic emphasis in Computer Information Systems, Management, Communication, and Psychology, and later completed a Master of Science in Business Administration.

Her professional career includes 18 years in banking, 6 years as a systems and software developer, and over 30 years in sales, providing her with a rare combination of analytical rigor, operational expertise, and relationship-driven leadership.

Since 2018, Allison has pursued advanced education in real estate investment, building hands-on expertise across a wide range of asset classes and strategies, including buy-and-hold rentals, shared housing, assisted living, multifamily properties, RV rental operations, mobile homes, rehab-to-rent projects, lease options, and creative financing. In addition, she leads a life insurance agency dedicated to helping families and business owners build long-term wealth through infinite banking concepts and disciplined financial stewardship.

Allison currently serves as President of Guardian House Foundation (since 2021), a faith-based nonprofit providing transitional sober housing for women rebuilding their lives, including those returning from incarceration and survivors of human trafficking and domestic abuse. Her work reflects a deep commitment to restoration-focused leadership rooted in dignity, accountability, and hope.

Based in Chester, Virginia, Allison brings strategic insight, administrative excellence, and mission-driven governance to her role as Administrator and Board Director of the Cellular Health Foundation, where she supports prevention-focused education and scientific research advancing health and well-being at the cellular level.

Anita Smart

Director

Anita Smart is an exceptional corporate bookkeeper with an impressive career spanning several decades. She brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a keen eye for detail to her role.

Throughout her career, Anita has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to financial accuracy and efficiency. Her in-depth knowledge of accounting principles, regulations, and industry best practices has made her an invaluable asset to the organizations she has served.

With a strong educational foundation in finance and accounting, Anita has honed her skills through hands-on experience and staying up to date with the latest advancements in her field. Her technical proficiency, coupled with her ability to analyze complex financial data, allows her to identify potential issues and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

As a corporate bookkeeper, Anita is known for her exceptional organizational skills and her ability to maintain current financial records. She possesses a sharp attention to detail, ensuring that every transaction is accurately recorded, accounts are reconciled, and financial statements are prepared with precision.

Her expertise extends beyond day-to-day bookkeeping tasks. Anita is skilled in financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting, providing valuable insights to support informed decision-making within the organizations she serves. Her ability to present financial information in a clear and concise manner has earned her the trust and confidence of executives and stakeholders.

Furthermore, Anita is highly regarded for her professionalism, integrity, and ethical approach to her work. She handles sensitive financial information with utmost confidentiality and exercises sound judgment when faced with complex financial scenarios.

In addition to her technical prowess, Anita possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills. She collaborates seamlessly with colleagues, auditors, and other stakeholders, fostering positive working relationships and ensuring that financial processes run smoothly.

Outside of her corporate bookkeeping role, Anita is passionate about continuing education and professional development. She stays abreast of industry trends, attends relevant workshops and conferences, and embraces technology to enhance her efficiency and effectiveness.

Anita continues to make a lasting impact in the corporate world through her exceptional bookkeeping skills, unwavering dedication, and wealth of knowledge. Her contributions to financial management and her commitment to accuracy and compliance serve as a testament to her expertise and professionalism in the field of corporate bookkeeping.

Our Researchers

Driven by a shared passion for addressing global health challenges, a team of dedicated researchers from across North America, the Philippines, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico has come together.

Patricia C. Kane, Ph.D

Specialist in NeuroMetabolic Medicine and Clinical Lipidology

Dr. Patricia Kane’s dedication and success in lipid research to support patients with fragile brain architecture has brought her widespread recognition in the field of biometabolic intervention by blending lipid bench science and medical lipid research with clinical medicine—by which she coined the term Membrane Medicine. Her expertise in boldly addressing neurological disorders and lipid disturbances with targeted nutritional intervention using bioactive lipids and phospholipids has led to direct biometabolic application utilized by physicians and researchers worldwide. Dr. Kane’s clinical experience, working with physicians, spans 50 years.

Dr. Kane has pioneered the targeted metabolic application of red cell fatty acid analysis from a university-based laboratory over the past 25 years and has expanded into phospholipid analysis for both pediatric and adult populations, with research relating to acute as well as chronic conditions. In 2008, she applied a specialized epigenetic analysis—“a portal into the cell”—whereby images of the membrane surface, phospholipids, and mitochondria of each patient, along with their DNA adducts, were utilized to approach the patient’s epigenetic aberrations. Working with physicians in the application of bioactive lipids, the findings have revealed both improvement in the patients’ clinical status and normalization of the phospholipids per red cell analysis and membrane imaging. Dr. Kane’s work has expedited the incorporation of current research and evidence-based medicine directly into clinical practice to help resolve some of the most complex medical disorders of our time.

Having a long-standing interest in the challenging area of treating neurological disease, Dr. Kane has approached refractory disorders in a “right to try” effort, including Alzheimer’s, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Delay, Seizure Disorders including refractory status epilepticus, Traumatic Brain Injury, Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, Inborn Errors in Metabolism/genetic disorders, Epigenetic insult, Neurotoxicity (toxic and viral encephalopathy, neurotoxic fungal exposure), Post-Stroke conditions, neuroinflammatory and autoimmune disorders, chronic infections including psychiatric disorders, Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neuron Disease, and Parkinson’s Disease.

Present research studies include examination of red cell lipid aberrations, ceramides/lipid rafts, and deformation in the phospholipid membranes in autism, Alzheimer’s, epigenetic disorders, and various inherited diseases. Research treatment protocols include targeted lipid therapy with lipid mediators such as phenylbutyrate, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, bioactive lipids, and a membrane-stabilizing diet—nutrient-dense with bioactive lipids—directed toward stabilizing cellular, organelle, and myelin architecture to normalize organelle function and resolve the accumulation of aberrant proteins and lipids characteristic of neurological and orphan diseases.

Dr. Kane has published numerous articles, essays, book chapters, and books focusing on evidence-based medicine for over 45 years. She contributed two chapters—1) Seizure Disorders: Balancing Fatty Acids to Stabilize Brain Activity, and 2) Autistic Spectrum Disorder: Dynamic Intervention for Neuronal Membrane Stabilization (with Dr. Annette Cartaxo)—to the 2009 medical book Food and Nutrients in Disease Management, edited by a Johns Hopkins University researcher.

In 2020, another medical chapter, Nutrition and Neuromuscular Disease, was published by Dr. Kane with co-authors Edward Kane, Dr. Annette Cartaxo, and Dr. Thomas Wnorowski. This appeared in the book Physical Medicine Interventions for Skeletal and Cardiac Muscle Dysfunction, edited by Dr. John R. Bach and Dr. Michael Chiou. Their chapter focuses on neurometabolic oral, enteral, and parenteral feeding with bioactive lipids for pediatric and adult populations with neuromuscular disease. Dr. Kane and colleagues are currently writing a book titled Membrane Medicine: A NeuroMetabolic Membrane Stabilizing Approach to Neurological Disease.

Dr. Kane is an accomplished lecturer and author, presenting annually to medical societies and universities in the U.S. and abroad. Alongside a consortium of physicians, she teaches a 3-day biomedical course on Membrane Medicine, emphasizing targeted lipid therapy and nutritional biochemistry from a membrane-stabilizing perspective with neurological applications. She has presented her work at the NIH, Columbia, Johns Hopkins, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Kansas, UMDNJ, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (the MIT of Europe), the Lipid Mediators in Health and Disease II Symposium, the Royal Medical Society, the EuroFed Lipid Congress, the Cardiolipin/Barth Syndrome Conference, ISSFAL, and NORD (Orphan Disease). Her innovative work has opened the doors of San Diego Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, The Cleveland Clinic, Boston Children’s Hospital, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Columbia, UMDNJ, Mt. Sinai, Cornell, and Harvard (2024) to neurometabolic lipid pharmacology and Membrane Medicine. Dr. Kane has also presented at Grand Rounds at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital Integrative Center and Morristown Atlantic Care Hospital in New Jersey, as well as at the New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition & Health.

Gil M. Vicente, MD

Senior Rhinologist and Otolaryngologist

Gil M. Vicente, MD is a highly respected Senior Rhinologist and Otolaryngologist – Head and Neck Surgeon based at St. Luke’s Medical Center in both Quezon City and Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. He earned his medical degree from the University of the Philippines (UP), Class of 1980, and completed his residency in Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH). To further specialize in Rhinology, he underwent fellowship training in both Germany and the United States, enhancing his knowledge and skill in nasal and sinus surgery.

Over the years, Dr. Vicente has made significant contributions to the medical community through clinical work, academic involvement, public service, and leadership in numerous local and international medical organizations. His advocacy and dedication have earned him multiple awards and recognition, both in the Philippines and abroad.

Professional Positions:

Senior Rhinologist and Otolaryngologist – Head and Neck Surgeon,
St. Luke’s Medical Center, Quezon City and BGC, Taguig
Assistant Professor, St. Luke’s Medical Center and Medical School (1995–2005)
Past Chair, Department of ORL-HNS, Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center

Leadership Roles:

President, Philippine Society of ORL-HNS (2008)
- Launched PASILIP KA campaign for early detection of head and neck cancer
- Initiated HANDACOW (Head and Neck Cancer Consciousness Week), institutionalized via Presidential Order No. 1676
- Led the society to win Most Outstanding Affiliate Society (PMA, 2009)
Past President:
- International Symposium of Infection and Allergy of the Nose (ISIAN), 1999
- International Symposium on Nasal Polyposis and Rhinosinusitis, 2017
- International Academy of Medical Specialists, 2017–2018
- International College of Surgeons (Philippine Section), 2017–2018
- Asian Research Symposium in Rhinology (ARSR), 1999
- Philippine Society of Oncology
- Philippine Academy of Rhinology, 2020–2021

Academic and International Contributions:

Speaker at international conferences across the USA, ASEAN, Europe, Australia, South America, China, and India (keynote, plenary, symposium)
Author of articles on rhinology and related topics, published in national and international journals
Editor-in-Chief of Facing Cancer with C.A.R.E., a layman’s guidebook on cancer support and survivor stories

Awards and Honors:

Young Achievers Award in Medicine, 1993
The Outstanding Physician in Community Service (TOPICS), 1995 – for Operation Tulong sa Ilong medical missions
ALIW Award for Medical Frontliners, 2020 – for Covid-19 education and ongoing outreach during the pandemic
International Award in Rhinology, 2023 – for global contributions and leadership in organizing rhinologic conferences

Advocacy and Outreach Initiatives:

3Ps Program (Painting, Poetry, Photography) – a therapeutic project for cancer patients in Metro Manila
Green Healing Advocacy Movement (GHAM) – an environmental health project in partnership with the International Academy of Medical Specialists, promoting climate action and clean air

Dr. Lowell I. Gerber, MD, MS, FACC

Integrative Cardiologist & Cellular Health Researcher

We are honored to welcome Dr. Lowell I. Gerber to the Cellular Health Foundation research team. With over four decades of distinguished experience in cardiovascular medicine, research, and integrative health, Dr. Gerber brings a unique and powerful perspective to our mission of advancing cellular healing.

Dr. Gerber earned his B.S. in Biology (1970) and M.S. in Physiology and Exercise Science (1971) from the University of Illinois. He went on to receive his M.D. from Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine in 1974. He completed his residency and cardiovascular fellowship at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, where he also led pioneering research and interventional studies throughout his clinical tenure.

A board-certified specialist in:

Internal Medicine
Cardiovascular Disease
Interventional Cardiology
Nuclear Cardiology
Cardiovascular CT

Dr. Gerber has also completed extensive training in Age Management, Nutritional and Metabolic Medicine, Hormone Optimization, and Naturopathic Medicine. He is a certified GAPS practitioner, a clinical educator in Photobiomodulation, and an active researcher in Membrane Medicine through Neurolipid-Research.org.

Throughout his career, Dr. Gerber has served as Principal Investigator in over 25 clinical trials, covering advanced interventional cardiology procedures, pharmaceutical research, and medical device innovation. His global research collaborations span France, Japan, and the U.S., with a focus on heart disease reversal, inflammation, and cardiometabolic resilience.

Dr. Gerber’s passion lies in integrating conventional cardiology with cellular-level interventions and personalized lifestyle medicine. His dedication to root-cause healing aligns perfectly with the Cellular Health Foundation’s commitment to advancing natural and integrative approaches for chronic illness.

As a new member of our research team, Dr. Gerber will contribute his extensive expertise in:

Cardiovascular Physiology
Nutrigenomics
Neuro-Lipid Medicine

to help develop leading-edge protocols for:

Inflammation Reduction
Mitochondrial Health
Chronic Disease Prevention

“True health comes when we understand the body not just as a collection of organs, but as an intelligent cellular system capable of healing itself when given the right tools.”
— Dr. Lowell Gerber

Karen Kaplan

Research Team Consultant

Karen has a passion for helping families and professionals have hope. She loves to connect people to resources, ideas, strategies and solutions.

Karen, currently consults with families and schools and non-profits hoping to expand education, knowledge and possibilities for those who learn differently. She writes for Exceptional Needs Magazine and blog Home | Exceptional Needs Special Needs (exceptionalneedstoday.com) and Autism Parents Magazine and Blog Autism Parenting Magazine - everything you need to support your family

Karen grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and once she saw the film, The Miracle Worker, at age 10, knew she wanted to help children communicate and learn.

Karen completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology at Arizona State University. She began her 40 years of commitment in her field, as a speech therapist and special education teacher, in both public and private schools for those who learn differently, focusing on autism spectrum. Home | Exceptional Needs Special Needs (exceptionalneedstoday.com)

Karen founded a residential school in the Sacramento Area and directed it for 20 years, helping parents nurture independence.

She believes in the art of possibility thinking. She is an author, On the Yellow Brick Road: My Search for Home and Hope for the Child with Autism: Kaplan, Karen: 9780999313503: Amazon.com: Books writer, consultant www.karenkaplanasd.com and colleague. She currently writes for Autism Parent Magazine Autism Parenting Magazine - everything you need to support your family and Exceptional Needs. Home | Exceptional Needs Special Needs (exceptionalneedstoday.com)

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