CURED Executive Board

Joshua Bastean is currently a Freshman at the University of Michigan studying Data Science through the School of Engineering and an Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) patient. He hopes to take the situation he finds himself in, living with a rare disease, and turn it into something of benefit for others. Joshua founded Pics4EoE.org, a student-led 501c3 nonprofit, 2 years ago with the purpose of raising awareness and research funding for EoE. Joshua is also currently working on advocating for his condition and other rare conditions through organizations such as YARR and CURED. He is an amateur photographer, FAA Part 107 remote pilot, and badminton/table tennis enthusiast.

Cody Brenneman is thirteen years old and in eighth grade. Diagnosed with EOE at the age of six. Tried elimination diet was one scope away from trying formula when there was finally a clean scope. Several foods were added in over the course of a few years. Upon getting older it was decided that he would go the medicine route using swallowed Flovent and then switched to Dupixent and is in remission ever since. Best time at Cincinnati Children's Hospital was when he got to tour the lab and take pictures with Dr. Rothenberg (the picture was on their website!). Cody loves bowling and video games. He is a member of student council, creative writing club, and has made the 4.0 honor roll every quarter of his school years.

Lindsay is a senior at Commack High School with a deep passion for medicine, volunteering, and dance. She serves as president of the Math Honor Society, vice president of the Future Health Professionals Club, secretary of the National Honor Society, and captain of her school’s kickline team—demonstrating exceptional dedication and leadership in all she does. After being diagnosed with Eosinophilic Gastritis in January 2022, Lindsay’s personal experiences deepened her desire to help others. She hopes to channel her compassion, empathy, and kindness into a career in pediatrics, where she can make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of children and their families.

My name is Gavin Johnson, and I’m a junior in high school serving on the CURED Junior Executive Board. I’m a varsity tennis player at Glenbrook South High School. I spend most of my time either on the court, watching sports, or hanging out with my friends. I was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) when I was just one year old, and I also live with several food allergies. Managing both from such a young age hasn’t always been easy, but it’s taught me how to be independent, speak up for myself, and push through challenges. Whether it’s in sports, school, or everyday life, I’ve learned how to adapt and stay focused. Being part of CURED gives me the chance to help other kids and families who are dealing with EoE and food allergies. I want people to know they’re not alone and that having these conditions doesn’t have to stop you from going after what you want.

Riley Johnson is a high school junior and the Secretary of the CURED Junior Executive Board. He joined the board to help raise awareness for eosinophilic diseases, which affect both him and his family. Outside of CURED, Riley enjoys running cross country and track, robotics, and spending time with his family and two dogs. Riley Johnson serves as the Secretary of the CURED Junior Executive Board. Diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), Riley understands firsthand the challenges of living with an eosinophilic disease—something his mom and brother also experience. He joined CURED to help spread awareness, support others in the community, and contribute to advancing research and understanding. Riley is a high school junior who enjoys running cross country and track, participating in robotics, and spending time with his family and two dogs.

 Breely Jane Maddox is currently a sophomore accounting student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is a member of two high-achieving honor societies, Beta Alpha Psi and Alpha Lambda Delta. She also has earned Presidential Honors for her 4.0 GPA. She proudly supports her twin sister and best friend, Paisleanne Maddox, who has Eosinophilic Esophagitis. She volunteers for the Arthritis Foundation and Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE). In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and reading her Bible. She is passionate about advocating for her twin sister and showing others how to support their loved ones who have chronic illnesses.

Paisleanne Maddox is a sophomore majoring in accounting at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is maintaining a 4.0 GPA, which allowed her to make the Presidential Honors List. She is member of Beta Alpha Psi and Alpha Lambda Delta, two honor societies for high achieving students. She was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis when she was 15 years old. She also has multiple food allergies. She loves to serve and give back to nonprofits that are helping patients like herself. Along with CURED, she also volunteers for Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) and the Arthritis Foundation. She joined CURED’s Junior Executive Board to help spread awareness and advocate for EGID patients. It is her passion to help others suffering from EGIDs find hope and healing. In her spare time, she enjoys studying her Bible, spending time with family, and reading. 

Hi! My name is Ellie, I’m 16 years old and I’m from Buffalo, NY.  I was diagnosed with EoE at 2 years old. I love spending my time traveling, doing legos, puzzles, and pottery!!

Hi, I’m Karrington, a junior interested in pursuing a career in medicine, specifically as a GI doctor. Being diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) has shaped my perspective and strengthened my passion for helping others through healthcare. I’m involved in NHS and Spanish Club, where I continue developing my Spanish and staying active in my school community through service and leadership. When I’m not at school or work, I’m usually listening to music, watching movies, or adding to my record collection. I’m proud to be part of CURED.

Nicole (Nikki) Paschke lives in Pittsburgh, PA. She was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) at 4 years old. Nikki manages her EoE through diet and medication. In the future, Nikki would like to study biomedical engineering so that she can do work to help others with eosinophilic diseases. At school, Nikki participates in Yearbook, Forensics, and track and field. Nikki is an avid reader, reading both fiction and non-fiction. She hopes to attend Carnegie Mellon University in the future.

 Grayson lives in Columbus, Ohio, and is a rising Senior in high school. He was first diagnosed in 2020. Since his diagnosis, he has managed his EoE symptoms by minimizing his dairy trigger. He has actively participated in the EGID Partners Student Advisory Committee and looks forward to contributing to CURED and its Junior Executive Board. He has a passion for traveling and exploring new places and cultures!

Anthony is a high school junior from Long Island, New York,  serving on the CURED Junior Executive Board. He is captain of his varsity volleyball team and treasurer of the Math Honor Society at Sachem East High School. He also competes year-round in club soccer and volleyball, balancing athletics with academics and leadership roles. Outside of sports and school, Anthony is passionate about advocacy and making a meaningful impact through his work with CURED. He was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) in December 2023, at 14 years old. He joined CURED in hopes of raising awareness for eosinophilic diseases and supporting families affected by them. Through his involvement, he aims to help others feel that they’re not alone through their battle with eosinophilic diseases and make sure that people impacted feel supported and empowered.

Cam is a 15-year-old living with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) and was diagnosed at age 2. Despite the challenges of living with food restrictions and ongoing treatments, he’s passionate about raising awareness and supporting others with eosinophilic related diseases. He’s excited to join the CURED Foundation’s Junior Executive Board to help make a difference, share his story, and be a voice for kids like him. In his free time, Cam is a competitive dancer and enjoys dancing, singing, and acting.