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.

Gavin Johnson
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.

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!!

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.

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.