Meet Our Team
Board Members
Robert Cavaliere, MD
President
For over two decades, I’ve cared for patients facing brain and spine tumors. While finding a cure remains my lifelong mission, I’ve witnessed firsthand the daily struggles patients and caregivers endure—often feeling helpless when medical expertise alone falls short. Recognizing that simple daily tasks can become overwhelming, my goal through the NOSC is to significantly improve day-to-day life for those affected, fulfilling my deep sense of commitment to patients beyond clinical care.
Dianne Waters
Vice President
I founded Waves of Gray, an annual 5K Brain Cancer/Tumor Awareness Walk in Jacksonville, after losing my husband Fred to glioblastoma in 2016. Committed deeply to supporting patients and their caregivers, I co-founded NOSC to enhance the well-being of and advocacy for those impacted by brain cancer. Alongside my professional career, I actively participate in charity events and enjoy spending time with my husband Matt, my two children, and our spirited puppy, all of whom generously support my mission of awareness and compassion.
Sherry Thorpe, RN, BSN, MS
Program Director
For over 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of caring for and advocating on behalf of both patients and providers. It’s deeply moving—and often heartbreaking—to witness brain and spine tumor patients and their care teams facing challenges that extend beyond what our healthcare system can solve. As clinicians, we strive to deliver the most effective treatments, but we know medical care alone isn’t enough. That’s why I’m dedicated to building a local peer-to-peer community that offers meaningful support, connection, and reassurance for those navigating this difficult journey.
Committee Chairs
Allie Kirilloff
Fundraising
Since my mom was diagnosed with glioblastoma in 2023, I’ve had a front-row seat to the challenges brain tumors bring to patients and families. NOSC has replaced that empty, helpless feeling with a true sense of community and connection. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of this group and grateful every day that my mom gets to experience the love and joy that surrounds NOSC.
Lorie Rogan
Community Events
I was the caregiver to my husband, who battled glioblastoma for over three years. Every day brought its challenges. Now, my focus is on helping others find the strength, courage, and joy to take it one day at a time.
Mike Fernandez
Marketing and Technology
As a pharmacist and healthcare professional with over 40 years of experience, I’ve witnessed the challenges patients and their families face—not just during treatment, but in the everyday moments in between. Working with NOSC gives me the opportunity to contribute and help ensure no one feels alone on their journey. I’m proud to support a mission that offers comfort, connection, and meaningful support to those navigating life with brain and spine tumors.
Nate Green
FINANCE/TREASURER
The isolation faced by brain and spine tumor patients—and their families and friends—is overwhelming and heartbreaking. When my good friend Dr Rob Cavaliere invited me to join the board, I eagerly accepted the opportunity to help. These individuals need a place to share their pain and connect with others experiencing similar struggles. Few organizations offer the sense of normalcy and connection that NOSC provides. It’s an honor to be part of such a meaningful effort.
Shari Dowd
Support Group
Working with oncology patients has shown me the profound emotional and medical challenges they face—especially those affected by brain tumors. I’ve seen how isolating and overwhelming the experience can be for both patients and their families. Years before entering the field, I supported a loved one through a brain tumor diagnosis, which gave me a lasting understanding of that uncertainty and helplessness. Today, I bring both clinical knowledge and personal experience to provide care that supports the whole person—with compassion, clarity, and connection at every step.
Additional Team Members
Mike Grebe
Corporate Advisor/Business Development
As a former executive with a strong background in leadership and nonprofit board service, I’m proud to support NOSC as a business advisor. Its mission—building a community for patients and caregivers affected by brain and spine tumors—is both vital and deeply personal. I hope to bring strategic and operational expertise that helps ensure NOSC’s long-term sustainability and impact. It’s an honor to contribute to a cause that offers strength, guidance, and hope to those who need it most.
Rich Riley
Program Assistant
After a rewarding 48-year career overseeing major projects and manufacturing businesses, my life changed profoundly when my wife of 54 years, Elizabeth, was diagnosed with glioblastoma. Her passing in 2022 motivated me to connect with others affected by this devastating disease. Inspired by the dedicated work of Waves of Gray and its founder, Dianne Waters, I committed myself to supporting brain cancer research and patient advocacy. I’m honored to now join NOSC, assisting with strategic initiatives to offer compassion and meaningful support to patients and families facing this challenging journey.