BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Mildred Velez

Mildred Velez is the founder and executive director of the FCSA. Mildred has worked in the social services industry since 1997. Mildred is the Co-Founder of a nationally recognized homeless youth shelter, which offers the most comprehensive mental and medical health services available to this population. Mildred is committed to equality in care and treatment of others. Mildred was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia in 2007 and founded the FCSA in response to the lack of adequate education, treatment and support for those living with Fibromyalgia. Mildred is on a quest to amplify the voices of the sick, poor and marginalized. In her spare time, she serves as a volunteer TBall Coach in the City of Newark. She enjoys teaching inner city youth ages 4-7 the wonderful game of baseball and valuable life-skills.

Dr. Kyra Blatt

Dr. Kyra Blatt is a neurologist in New York, New York. She received her medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University and has been in practice for 20 years. Dr. Blatt has served on numerous committees, advisory boards and has been a principal investigator/sub investigator related to myriad of neurological conditions. Dr. Blatt has also served on the Fibromyalgia Advisory Board of Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. She is a practicing neurologist at Dykman Medical Services and Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center and a senior research neurologist at The Medical Research Network.

KIM GILCHRIST

Kim Gilchrist is an assistant deputy mayor in New Jersey. Kim has devoted her life to public service and has worked to advocate for marginalized communities. Kim has also been a strong advocate of health issues facing the community for which she represents and has worked to secure funding and awareness for underrepresented health issues. Kim also works to facilitate the stewardship and support of corporate responsibility opportunities for health charities.

SHARON MARTINGALE

Sharon Martingale is an Assistant Vice President at a regional bank in New Jersey working in the IT area. She has worked in the banking industry for over 20 years. Sharon was diagnosed in 2011 and has been active with the NY and NJ Caterpillar events, as well as many events to raise funds through her company. She believes that all patients with fibro should expect to be treated with dignity and respect. She is married and enjoys traveling, painting, music, and animals, especially her two cats and goldfish.

Wanda Nieves

Wanda has been working in Healthcare for nearly 40 years. Her love for working with and helping patients with underlying illnesses has inspired her to pursue and obtain a B.S. in Health Education and Promotion in Community Health. Wanda was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia in 2010 and has been with the FCSA since the inaugural walk in 2015. Wanda also has a special interest in bringing Fibromyalgia Care and services to her birthplace of Puerto Rico.