Who We Are

Seth Ginsberg is an international health advocate and thought leader based in New York City. Ginsberg was diagnosed in 1994 with Spondylarthritis, and in 1999, at age 18, he helped pioneer the world’s first online patient community for the millions of people worldwide suffering from arthritis, called CreakyJoints. CreakyJoints has grown into a trusted and recognized web site and patient community, delivering robust patient education, community-based and web-based support, advocacy initiatives and patient-centered research. In 2007, Ginsberg and social entrepreneur Louis Tharp co-founded the Global Healthy Living Foundation, the 501(c)(3) non-profit parent organization of CreakyJoints and other advocacy-related activities for neurological and cardiovascular conditions. CreakyJoints Australia, also lead by Ginsberg, is the first international patient community under the GHLF umbrella, and constitutes a growing and vibrant community of patients throughout Australia.

Since 2014, Ginsberg has served as a Principal Investigator of the PCORI-funded patient-powered research network ArthritisPower®. As a web and smartphone app, ArthritisPower is an innovative registry engineered for and by people with rheumatoid arthritis and related autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Research efforts are overseen by a patient governor group as well as a distinguished research and corporate advisory board.

In 2011, Ginsberg helped create GHLF’s 50-State Network, which is an active network of more than 1,300 patient advocates, based in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Under Ginsberg’s leadership, the 50-State Network focuses on barriers to care people living with chronic illness endure by working with state governors, legislature leadership and insurance commissioners as well as Congress and health-related Congressional Committees and Caucuses, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and its regulatory agency the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Ginsberg appears as a guest on local and national broadcast news programs, is a regular op-ed contributor, healthcare news, opinion and advice columnist for U.S. News & World Report, and frequent keynote speaker at professional conferences and healthcare meetings.

Seth lives in Manhattan with his wife, Cara Zelas, who is the author of the children’s book series “The Big World of Little Dude.”

After running a successful international public relations, advertising and marketing company for nearly 20 years, taking equity positions in tech companies during the ‘90s, and working for some of the largest international PR and marketing agencies, Louis Tharp became a social entrepreneur in 1999, co-founded and acted as the initial funder for CreakyJoints, an international service organization for people with arthritis. In 2007 CreakyJoints became part of the Global Healthy Living Foundation, which he also co-founded. GHLF focuses on health policy, advocacy, research, education and patient support issues.

In addition to his work with the foundation, he is also CEO and co-founder of TGI Healthworks, a healthcare research and marketing company.

He was previously a contract writer for The New York Times as well as other daily newspapers and automotive publications, and published his first hardcover book, The Complete Manager’s Guide to Promotional Merchandise (Dow-Jones Irwin) in 1989 – named one of the top business books of the year.

In 2005, he became the first out gay coach at the U.S. Military Academy, where he was the swim coach of the West Point Triathlon team. He published Overachiever’s Diary in 2007, a softcover book recounting the West Point tri team’s rise to national prominence. Proceeds from book sales go to the West Point triathlon team. He is also a competitive open water and pool swimmer with 13 World Masters, Gay Games and OutGames gold, silver and bronze medals.

From 2003 to 2008, he served on the board of visitors for the College of Business at Butler University, Indianapolis where he graduated with a B.S. and a B.A. in Journalism in 1972. Mr. Tharp served in the 38th Infantry Division, Headquarters, Indiana National Guard from 1972-1978. He was Chairman of the Anti-Bias Commission, Rockland County, New York, from 1994-1996; Chairman of the Board of CANDLE, a Rockland County, New York, non-profit from 1994-1997; is a former member of the board of the Victory Fund, Washington, DC, the Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation, and a current member of Knights Out, U.S. Military Academy. In 2019 he accepted a position as a board member of AIDS United. From 2012-2018 he accepted a position in the Obama administration serving on the Army Education Advisory Committee and was recognized for his service in the Congressional Record.

Louis and his husband, Jim Bumgardner, live in Upper Nyack, NY.

Laurie J Ferguson PhD is the Director of Education Development. As a health psychologist, she offers expertise on patient- centered programming and educational needs that come with chronic health conditions. Her area of research focuses on developing resilient attitudes and behaviors, particularly in times of chronic pain and stress. Her national and international workshops focus on dealing with transitions and life challenges. She wrote a column for patients on the website CreakyJoints.com, and has appeared in numerous webcasts and podcasts. As a health and motivational speaker she addresses physicians and patient groups. She is a co- author for Overachiever’s Diary, a story of the swimming training of the West Point triathlon team. She holds an AB cum laud from Smith College, a Masters from Princeton Seminary and a Ph.d from Adelphi University. Dr. Ferguson has a private therapy practice in Tappan NY.

W. Benjamin Nowell, Ph.D., M.S.W., is Director, Patient-Centered Research, at the Global Healthy Living Foundation, CreakyJoints® and Principal Investigator of ArthritisPower™ Patient-Powered Research Network with Shilpa Venkatachalam, PhD, and Jeffrey Curtis, MD, MS, MPH (University of Alabama at Birmingham). Ben leads all research activities conducted by the organization, including facilitating studies conducted with academic and industry partners. His research interests include examination of the factors that facilitate patient engagement and adherence to providing digital health measures, use of wearable devices in the measurement of disease activity, and patient-reported outcomes and shared decision making in rheumatologic conditions. Prior to joining GHLF, Ben worked as a medical social worker and Community and Long-Term Care Coordinator for the Ottawa Regional Stroke Centre and as Research Coordinator for an evaluation of participant outcomes in the Arthritis Foundation chronic disease self-management programs for arthritis. He received his PhD from Columbia University School of Social Work, his MSW from the University of California at Berkeley School of Social Welfare, and his undergraduate degree from Gonzaga University.

David Curtis is Director of Technology and Data Services is responsible for all technology needs related to patient communities, and is responsible for the organization’s technology planning and strategy, translating present and future business needs into technology requirements, and facilitates their design and implementation internally and with vendors and partners. He completed his undergraduate degree in Information Systems at Pace University, with a minor in Economics. After completing his degree, he worked in various roles within the corporate technology sector, including infrastructure and Internet technology implementation and management, software design and development, and data storage and warehousing.

Shilpa Venkatachalam, PhD, MPH, is the Associate Director of Patient Centered Research leading the Patient Partners in Research, a group of patients with chronic and autoimmune conditions who are interested in engaging in research as more than just passive human subjects.

In addition, she manages several research projects including a collaborative research group on Autoimmune and Systemic Inflammatory Syndrome and the GHLF ArthritisPower research registry which is part of 20 Patient Powered Research Networks of the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Net. She has been a project lead on the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute Social Media and Research Toolkit engagement award which developed best practices for using social media to engage patients and other stakeholders in all phases of research, including disseminating evidence-based information.

Shilpa completed her undergraduate degree in Mumbai, before moving to the U.K. to complete a Masters in Literature at the University of Durham, and earned her PhD in Critical Theory at the University of Nottingham, U.K. She has worked as an academic in the U.K., the U.S and in the West Indies.

Following significant life events that required navigating health systems as patient and as caregiver, she earned an Advanced Master’s in Global Health from New York University, during which she also won the prestigious Paul Ambrose Scholars Program fellowship awarded by the by the Association for Prevention Teaching and Research. She was among 25 chosen by The Young Persons Chronic Disease Network in collaboration with American Cancer Society and the Harvard Global Equity Center for The Global Cancer Advocacy Training.

In addition, she has been a regular panelist for video conference presentations on Global Health Topics by the Ambassador’s Club at the United Nations as part of a UNITAIR initiative. She has international experience in healthcare, and has worked in India and in Chad in both private sectors and public sectors on chronic health disease related projects.

Joseph is our director of education and digital strategy. He oversees our digital strategy for GHLF/CreakyJoints social media channels. He developed and moderates our successful twitter discussion (#CreakyChats) which addresses pressing needs of the chronic disease community. In addition, he works closely with our advocacy team to ensure that the patient voice is heard by helping patients share their story. His passion is to ensure that important and sometimes complex information is presented in an accessible way that encourages positive action.

Prior to working at GHLF/CreakyJoints, Joseph was the court and community liaison for VCS (Volunteer Counseling Services).

He currently serves as a founding board member of the Rockland County Pride Center and sits on the executive committee of the Rockland County Democratic Committee.

He is a past board member of the Planned Parenthood Hudson Paconic Action Fund, the National Organization for Men Against Sexism and the New York State Young Democrats.

In 2011, Joseph was named one of the “40 under 40” by the Rockland County, New York Economic Development Corporation for his contributions to his local community.

In 2016, he received the Public Citizen of the Year award given by the National Organization of Social Workers- NY State Chapter- Westchester Division for his social justice activism.

Joseph holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration and a BA in English and Women’s Studies.

Kelly Gavigan, MPH, Manager, Research and Data Science is responsible for collecting and analyzing patient-reported data to better inform scientific and clinical research on arthritis and arthritis-related conditions. Kelly has coauthored numerous published abstracts and soon-to-be published manuscripts on ArthritisPower research. ArthritisPower is GHLF’s patient-reported outcomes registry. She also analyzes data collected through GHLF’s CreakyJoints and the 50-State Network communities, which help to inform policy. Kelly graduated from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health in 2016 with a Master of Public Health in Sociomedical Sciences and Global Health. During her graduate program, she worked at an advocacy nonprofit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where she published work on topics including HIV treatment and prevention literacy. Kelly graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Boston College, where she also minored in Faith, Peace and Justice.

Daniel Hernandez, MD, leads our medical team of consulting physicians as well as Hispanic outreach across all disease states and countries. Daniel was born in El Paso, Texas. He graduated with a Biology degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio, received his MD from the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, and co-founded the International Medical Graduate section of the National Hispanic Medical Association.

Jim Bumgardner, MFA, is Director, Arts Outreach. He leads patient art outreach for all GHLF digital communities, including producing and directing the CreakyJoints Radio Theater, overseeing patient painting, sculpture, writing, singing and other art forms. Jim previously taught at Seton Hall University, Thomas Aquinas College, and Hofstra University, and is the producer for Bergenstages, the performing arts program at Bergen Community College, Paramus, NJ, as well as a professor of theatre there. Prior and during his tenure at Bergen Community College, he directed plays and musicals at the Cortland Repertory Theatre in Cortland, NY. Jim has worked as an actor in New York City at the Lamb’s Theatre, Soho Playhouse, Ubu Rep., Judith Anderson Theatre, Playwright’s Horizons, Actor’s Advent and the Actor’s Playhouse. Regionally, he has worked as an actor all along the East Coast, as far south as Boca Raton, FL and as far north as Whitefield, NH. In the mid-1990’s, Jim had a recurring role on CBS’s “Another World” as Dr. Reed. His film credits include “The Fisher King,” “Regarding Henry” and “Soap Dish.” He is a member of A.E.A, SAG and AFTRA. Some of his directing credits include “Into the Woods,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Making God Laugh,” “The 1940’s Radio Hour”, “The Heiress”, “The Hollow,” “A Murder Is Announced,” “Cabaret,” “Brigadoon,” “Kiss Me, Kate,” “Damn, Yankees!,” “Godspell,” “The Mousetrap,” “A Funny Thing…Forum,” “Moonlight and Magnolias,” and “Kindertranspsort”. Jim earned an MFA in directing from Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, NY and a BA in Theatre and Romance Languages from St. Andrews University in Laurinburg, NC.

Laura Stradford, MPH, Project Manager is responsible for overseeing the development, advancement and coordination of research projects, including project design, budget, staffing, logistics and other supportive functions. She earned a Master of Public Health at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, with a focus in Epidemiology and Applied Biostatistics. She received a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Saint Peter’s University. Prior to joining GHLF, Laura worked in healthcare consulting and was responsible for designing and implementing retrospective longitudinal analyses of claims data, literature reviews, and development of peer reviewed publications. She also worked as a supervisory paralegal for a major international corporation, managing a network of paralegals nationally.

Corey manages the 50-State Network state advocacy activities and works directly with our patient advocates to share their concerns to federal and state legislators and regulators. He earned a Master of Public Health at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, with a focus in Healthcare Policy Analysis. He received a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and Public Health from the University of Miami. Corey has Type 1 diabetes, and prior to joining GHLF, he worked with the non-profit organization American Youth Understanding Diabetes Abroad (A.Y.U.D.A.) to provide outreach and education to children diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in Ecuador and the Dominican Republic.

Ryan Johnson is Manager, Finance and Administration is responsible for internal administration and financial processes, overseeing and implementing office, employee and accounting policies. Ryan graduated from Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Danielle Ali is a systems analyst and is responsible for analyzing technology requirements and implementing best practice for system performance. While receiving her BS in Technological System Management with a specialization in Information Systems at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, she served as Communications Coordinator for the Dean of Students; Data Coordinator, Student Engagement & Activities; Project Coordinator, American Arbitration Association, and Vice President of Academic Affairs-Executive Council of Stony Brook’s Undergraduate Student Government.

James Dybisz, Manager, Web Development is responsible for the creation, management, improvement, alteration, and upkeep of intellectual property hosted on GHLF’s websites. James received a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Savannah College of Art and Design, majoring in Interactive Design and Development, and won the 2nd place Entelechy Award for participation in his senior team project. Since graduating, James has worked in IT at Inc. Magazine, and as a contractor for GrubHub, and Nars Cosmetics. James has also volunteered at social and digital events, where he has hosted cooperative gatherings for people interested in interactive design and entertainment.

Amy Finkelstein is GHLF’s Technical Support Specialist. She researches all tech-related inquires and provides support to staff members. She also serves as an administrative assistant to ensure accurate records and efficient processes within the GHLF tech team. Amy graduated from Rutgers Business School in 2018 with a dual major in Supply Chain Management and Marketing. During her time in school she served as a Teaching Assistant in Operations Management. After completing her degree, she worked in various roles within the private sector centered in Customer Service and Operations.

Zoe Rothblatt, MPH, is a Patient Advocate, Community Outreach Manager and engages in direct patient communications, supporting GHLF’s patient councils and board of governors. Zoe is responsible for understanding patient needs and creating patient-centered resources as well as researching policy initiatives. She earned a Master of Public Health at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, with a focus on Health Policy and Management. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Health: Science, Society and Policy from Brandeis University. Prior to joining GHLF, Zoe worked at the Community Service Society of New York as a community health advocate providing direct service, advocacy, advice and referrals for patients needing assistance.

Conner Mertens is a patient advocate and community outreach manager. His direct daily contact with patients supports CreakyJoints’ mission to understand and support our community. His work supports the 50-State Network of advocates, helping people with chronic disease share their story to their family, community, elected and appointed leaders. He provides our community members with tools and training to effectively advocate for positive change. Conner interned for the Minority House Leader at the Oregon State Legislature, worked closely with legislators in Washington State passing mental health and suicide prevention laws, and was an intern at CNN New York, working in production and research for Anderson Cooper 360. In 2014, he was the first National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) football player to come out publicly about his sexuality. He traveled the country speaking at high schools and universities, corporations, festivals and in state legislatures on topics such as anti-bullying, suicide-prevention, mental health, activism in sports and LGBTQ issues. Some past speaking engagements include the South by Southwest film festival, Toronto Film Festival and Nike. He has served on boards for the Trevor Project, The You Can Play Project, the Sports Equality Foundation and the New Rochelle, NY, Mayor’s LGBT Advisory Board. Currently, he holds a board position as the communications director of the Hudson Valley Stonewall Democrats. In 2014, Conner was awarded the “Hero of the Year” distinction from Outsports and also earned Queerty’s 2018 “Up & Coming” award. Conner graduated from Willamette University in Oregon with a B.A. in Politics in 2017, and was featured on its website for his success in LGBT issues, politics and at GHLF.

Angel Tapia is a patient advocate that works in outreach to our Hispanic community. Angel helps support research and education projects and assist with the translation of services. Angel also helps manage social media platforms such as LinkedIn and the soon to be launched Facebook Español. She is one of the newest staff members and has been with GHLF since October of 2020.

Esteban Rivera, MS, Data Analyst is responsible for analyzing data from GHLF’s CreakyJoints, PainSpot, and 50-State Network. He also assists in analyzing patient-reported outcomes from GHLF’s ArthritisPower research registry and conducts research to support outreach in the Hispanic and Latin(x) communities. Esteban is a graduate of the Levy Economics Institute of Bard College, where he studied heterodox economic theory and policy focused on equitable policy construction.

Leah Rocketto, Manager, Editorial Services, is responsible for ideating and executing editorial plans that align with the digital strategy of GHLF. She was previously Deputy Site Director at Women’s Day, Health Editor at INSIDER, and a founding editor of Romper. She has extensive experience in digital journalism, specifically in the areas of audience development, content strategy, search engine optimization, and digital analytics. She graduated from Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.

Sarah Shaw is a BIPOC Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager covering the chronic disease community, including neurology, autoimmune conditions, and oncology. As a migraine patient she also implements migraine patient activities and coalitions, as well as GHLF/CreakyJoints patient councils. She holds a B.A. in Journalism & Media and a minor in Labor Studies with a concentration in Diversity in the Workplace from Rutgers University. She is very involved in patient advocacy events and has been featured in various advocacy campaigns, including the Speak Your Migraine Campaign, WebMD’s “In Their Own Words: Moving Beyond Migraine” segment with Robin Roberts and an avid advocate at the lobbying event Headache on the Hill in Washington, D.C.