Recognized Rare Disease Leaders 2025

Dr. Richard Horowitz is a board-certified internist and the medical director of the Hudson Valley Healing Arts Center, an integrative medical center which combines both mainstream and integrative approaches in the treatment of Lyme disease and other tick-borne disorders. He has treated over 13,000 Lyme and tick-borne disease patients in the last 41 years, with patients coming from all over the world to his clinic. He is one of the founding members and past president elect of ILADS, the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society. He is also past president of the ILADEF, the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Educational Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the education of health care professionals on tick-borne diseases. Dr Horowitz has trained hundreds of healthcare providers in diagnosing and caring for patients with treatment-resistant tick-borne disorders and was previously awarded the Humanitarian of the Year award by the Turn the Corner Foundation as well as awards from Project Lyme for his treatment of Lyme Disease. He has been a member of the Advisory Panel, Lyme disease Educational Initiative, at Harvard Medical School from 2021-2023 and has co-authored peer-reviewed Lyme guidelines. Dr Horowitz was a member of the HHS Tick-borne Disease Working Group and Co-chair of the “Other Tick-borne Diseases and Coinfections” subcommittee from 2017-2019 which provided recommendations to Congress to help the US improve the care of those suffering with tick-borne disorders. He also served as a member of the HHS Babesia and Tick-borne Pathogen Subcommittee and has recently served as a member of the NYS Department of Health Tick-borne disease Working Group from 2021-2024. He is the author of two best-selling books on Lyme disease, Why Can’t I Get Better? Solving the Mystery of Lyme and Chronic Disease (2013, St Martin’s Press, NY Times Best Seller), and How Can I Get Better? An Action Plan for Treating Resistant Lyme and Chronic Disease (2017, St Martin’s Press, National bestseller). He will be releasing his third science book on comprehensive answers for chronic disease in October 2026 through Simon and Schuster, called ‘Ending Chronic Illness: A Revolutionary New Program to Reverse Inflammation and Heal Persistent Disease’. After a one year intensive dive into the scientific literature, Dr H discovered that the 16 point MSIDS model that he pioneered for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic Lyme disease also applies to most chronic diseases affecting humanity which are causing suffering and disability. Ending Chronic Illness will provide innovative scientific solutions for both the prevention and treatment of diseases including but not limited to ADD/ADHD, Autism, Alzheimer’s disease, allergies and asthma, the 3 B’s (Borrelia, Babesia, Bartonella), cardiovascular disease, cancer, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/M.E., digestive disorders, environmental toxicity, Fibromyalgia, hormonal, mood and pain disorders as well as acute and chronic viral infections. In that regard, a recent publication by Dr H in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease Reports, provided proof that his 16 point MSIDS model for chronic illness not only applies to Alzheimer's disease, but his 9 week oral, generic treatment for Lyme disease reversed Alzheimer's biomarkers for the first time ever, providing new avenues of treatment for dementia: Improving biomarkers of inflammation including phosphorylated tau in a patient with chronic Lyme disease/post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome using dapsone combination therapy: A case study and literature review. Richard Horowitz. Review article. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease Reports. First published online April 27, 2026 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/25424823261445434 More information on Dr H's new book and groundbreaking research can be found here: https://cangetbetter.com/ending-chronic-illness/

*Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician (ABFM) with 14+ years clinical experience (based in Chicago, IL) *Named Castle Connolly Top Doctor (2024, 2025) *Medical Media Commentator seen on/in ABC 7, Fox 32, CBS 2, WGN 9, The Chicago Tribune , Chicago Sun Times, and Everyday Health; including a nationwide 25 interview satellite media tour (TV & radio, November 2025) *Premedical Student Mentor, Urban Bridges Medical Mentoring Program Dr. Rene is a board-certified Family Medicine physician and Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians (FAAFP) with 14+ years of clinical experience. She provides comprehensive primary care for Medicare-eligible patients at Oak Street Health's Avalon Park location in Chicago, specializing in chronic disease management, preventive care, healthcare equity, and access for underserved communities. After overcoming 50 medical school rejections, Dr. Rene graduated from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed residency training at Ascension Saint Joseph Hospital - Chicago. She developed the L.Y.M.I.T.S. Method—a framework for transforming limitations into your greatest strengths. She mentors aspiring physicians through the Urban Bridges Medical Mentoring Program. Dr. Rene has appeared as a medical expert on ABC 7, Fox 32, CBS 2, and WGN 9 Chicago and recently completed a 25-interview national satellite media tour. She is available for expert commentary on resilience in healthcare, medical education equity, resilience and overcoming failure, healthcare access for underserved populations, and diversity in medicine.

Dr. Yoon Hang “John” Kim is a board-certified integrative medicine physician with over 20 years of clinical experience dedicated to root-cause, patient-centered care. He is widely recognized as one of the leading clinical experts on Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) therapy, having authored three books and more than 20 articles on the subject, and leads the LDN Support Group—a thriving community of over 7,000 members. Dr. Kim completed his Integrative Medicine Fellowship at the University of Arizona’s Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, where he trained under the mentorship of Dr. Andrew Weil as a prestigious Osher Fellow. He holds board certifications in both Preventive Medicine and Integrative/Holistic Medicine, along with certification in Medical Acupuncture from UCLA. He was also a scholarship recipient from the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), further deepening his expertise in functional medicine approaches to complex chronic conditions. His clinical expertise spans integrative oncology—informed by deeply personal experience supporting family members who are now cancer survivors—chronic pain management, and the treatment of complex conditions including SIBO, MCAS, and autoimmune disorders. He brings a unique combination of conventional medical rigor and evidence-based complementary therapies to every patient encounter. Dr. Kim is the founder of Direct Integrative Care, a membership-based telemedicine practice that deliberately limits enrollment to ensure deep, personalized physician-patient relationships. His practice serves patients across six states—Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Texas, Georgia, and Florida—operating entirely outside the constraints of insurance systems to preserve clinical independence and patient-first decision-making. A featured speaker at the LDN Research Trust conferences, Dr. Kim is a passionate educator who shares his expertise through his clinical and professional websites, a YouTube channel, and educational platforms including LDNSupportGroup.com. His personal motto—“Luck favors the prepared bold”—reflects his commitment to courage, preparation, and innovation in medicine.

Dr. Sarassawadee Suwanjinda ("Dr. Petch") is Co-Founder and Chief Medical Strategy Officer at Healthi Life, Bangkok's Urban Longevity House. Certifications: - International Board of Lifestyle Medicine (IBLM) - International Society for Stem Cell Application (ISSCA) - Certified Board of Anti-Aging Medicine (CBAM) - American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM) - Certificate in Aesthetic Medicine 10+ years of clinical experience in longevity, regenerative, functional, and lifestyle medicine. Available for expert medical commentary on: - Longevity medicine and healthspan extension - Stem cell and exosome therapy safety - NAD+ IV therapy and mitochondrial health - Peptide therapy and physician oversight (Tirzepatide, Retatrutide, BPC-157) - Hormone optimization (testosterone, perimenopause) - 300+ biomarker health check-ups - Functional medicine for chronic conditions Located in Ekkamai, Bangkok. Serving 50+ nationalities.

Ryan Farmer is the founder of My Peptide Match, a consumer education site that helps people make sense of GLP-1 medications and the fast-changing peptide landscape. He focuses on simplifying complex topics—like real-world pricing, treatment pathways, sourcing differences, and what questions to ask—so readers can make more informed decisions with their clinician. Ryan tracks emerging trends across weight-loss peptides, compounding and telehealth access, and the economics that shape what consumers actually pay. He’s available to comment on GLP-1 and peptide cost comparisons, patient decision-making, and the broader market shifts driving demand. He also publishes practical reference tools, including a peptide calculator and dosage guide, to support clearer conversations between consumers and providers.

Dr. Leybelis Padilla, MD, FACG, is a Gastroenterologist and Lifestyle Medicine physician who has redefined what it means to heal from within. She founded Unlocking GI, an evidence-based telemedicine program that utilizes her 4 M framework—Medicine, Meals, Mindset, and Movement—delivering personalized and sustainable micro habits that unlock vitality, improve digestive health, and elevate overall well-being. She is also a member of Dr. Joe Dispenza's Inner Health Coalition of healthcare practitioners that incorporate meditation and mindset principles into clinical practice. But her mission doesn’t stop at medicine. She’s also the co-founder of Game Beyond the Game, where alongside her husband, Prince, they curate luxury events designed to help high performers and brands transform their health, wealth, and vision. Whether she’s guiding patients or world-class achievers, Dr. Padilla is on a mission to turn obstacles into opportunities and unlock limitless potential.

Ruchir P. Patel, M.D., is the Founder and Medical Director of The Insomnia and Sleep Institute of Arizona. He is a highly regarded full time practicing sleep medicine physician in the Phoenix metro area awarded Top Doctor several years in a row by his peers. He has dedicated his career to sleep medicine and improving individuals lives via improved sleep. In addition to his full time sleep medicine practice, Dr. Patel has been actively involved in clinical research trying to identify novel therapeutic options for the treatment of sleep disorders outside of pharmaco-therapeutics. Furthermore, he serves as a sleep medicine consultant to several sleep medicine industry leaders involved in insomnia drug therapy, online sleep coaching and natural sleep supplement formulation, and sleep-related neuromodulation. He also serves as a Board of Director since 2014 with Arizona Foundation for Medical Care, a local Preferred Provider Organization (PPO).

Elizabeth Rubin, MD is a board-certified physician with advanced fellowship training in Medical Simulation, specializing in education, patient safety, and systems innovation. She currently practices at a Level I Trauma Center in Los Angeles, California, where she cares for critically ill and injured patients. She also serves on the clinical oversight team at The Embers Treatment, a drug & alcohol treatment center in Arizona. Dr. Rubin earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pennsylvania, followed by her medical degree from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. She completed her residency in Emergency Medicine at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach and went on to pursue a fellowship in Medical Simulation at the University of Chicago / NorthShore University HealthSystem. Her professional interests include simulation-based education, quality improvement, patient safety, and developing innovative approaches to emergency medical training. Through her work, she strives to improve both clinician performance and patient outcomes in high-stakes, time-sensitive environments.

I am an MD-PhD physician-scientist with a passion for translating complex clinical and scientific data into clear, accurate content. My training and experience span clinical practice and translational research, with expertise across oncology, immunology, gastroenterology, inflammation & metabolism, and rare diseases. With over 10 years of experience, I have supported key deliverables including more than 30 peer-reviewed publications, manuscripts, slide decks, literature reviews, and scientific narratives. I enjoy working in collaborative, deadline-driven environments and am particularly interested in medical writing, medical information, and publication development, where scientific accuracy and effective storytelling intersect.

Dr. Ayesha Bryant, M.S.P.H, M.D. is a physician, clinical scientist, and associate professor dedicated to translating complex medical research into practical health solutions. With more than 100 peer-reviewed publications and multiple textbook chapters, Dr. Bryant is recognized for her contributions to perioperative outcomes research, preventive medicine, and quality-of-life improvement. She currently serves as a clinical advisor at Alpas Wellness, a drug, alcohol & mental health treatment center in Maryland. She completed her medical training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine and Emory University, with additional training in epidemiology and public health. Her research has been featured at major national and international conferences, including the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Dr. Bryant’s expertise spans functional medicine, AI-driven healthcare algorithms, and national clinical data registry research. She is passionate about combining evidence-based medicine with real-world wellness strategies to improve patient outcomes and preventive care. In addition to her academic work, she has written for Rupa Health, where she shares insights on how readers can live healthier, more vibrant lives.

Dr. Shernell Surratt-Gary, D.O., is a Tulsa, Oklahoma native whose journey reflects both determination and dedication. She graduated from the University of Tulsa with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, where her interest in medicine and the human body deepened. Before matriculating to medical school, Shernell gained valuable hands-on experience at Ascension St. John, working first in the pathology department and later in the catheterization lab. These formative roles not only strengthened her technical skills but also gave her a deep appreciation for the teamwork and precision required in healthcare. She went on to earn her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from OSU Center for Health Sciences, furthering her commitment to understanding health, science, and the human experience. In addition, she served as a Family Medicine Content Author for Rosh Review, LLC, contributing to medical education and board review resources for resident physicians. Dr. Surratt-Gary currently serves as a clinical advisor for Aura Wellness, a drug, alcohol & mental health treatment center in Kentucky. Beyond her academic and professional path, Shernell embraces family life with joy. She lives with her husband and their two children, cherishing the laughter, love, and everyday moments they share together.

I am the Founder and CEO of RCR|HUB, a U.S.-based platform that connects healthcare organizations with their Revenue Cycle partners (vendors) through education, awareness, and collaboration in healthcare revenue cycle management. I have more than 20 years of experience in healthcare marketing and technology, with a particular focus on Revenue Cycle Management strategies, AI-powered visibility, SEO/GEO, vendor positioning, automation, and the adoption of healthcare technology. Through my work with RCR|HUB, I provide solutions to help your organization improve discoverability, industry awareness, and connectivity.

Dr. Brian Honeyman, MD, PhD, is a board-certified physician in Hospice and Palliative Medicine and Internal Medicine, with a career spanning clinical leadership, medical education, and translational research. He currently serves as a Clinical Advisor at Marietta Springs, where he helps guide compassionate, evidence-based approaches to patient care and recovery. Dr. Honeyman most recently served as Chief of Palliative Medicine for Care New England Medical Group, advancing holistic and patient-centered models of serious illness care. In addition to his clinical leadership, Dr. Honeyman is a dedicated educator and former Assistant Professor of Medicine at Brown University, where he mentored medical students, residents, and interdisciplinary learners. A graduate of the Boston University School of Medicine MD/PhD program, his doctoral research explored the molecular mechanisms of breast cancer, with publications in PLOS One and Chemistry & Biology.

Michael Genovese is a physician and attorney based in New York City. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, a member of the American Medical Association, a Fellow of both the American Psychiatric Association and the American Society of Addiction Medicine, and a member of the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry. Dr. Genovese co-founded the multidisciplinary medical practice Long Island Mind and Body in New York while practicing as an attending physician at NYU/Winthrop University Hospital. He was a fellow at the NYU/North Shore University Hospital Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Program, and he completed his residency training at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. Before beginning his medical studies, Dr. Genovese earned a Juris Doctor degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. He is a member of the New York Bar and the American Bar Association and is an advocate for attorneys and first responders seeking treatment for addiction and co-occurring disorders. Dr. Genovese is passionate about advocating for people and families who struggle with addictions and is strongly connected to Ascendant’s mission to help those in need.

Dr. Francisco Contreras serves as director, president and chairman of the Oasis of Hope Hospital. A distinguished oncologist and surgeon, Contreras is renowned for combining conventional and alternative medical treatments with emotional and spiritual support to provide patients with the most positive treatment experience possible.

I’m Dr. Noah Edvalson, founder of The Idaho Center for Integrative Medicine (ICIM) in Boise. My lifelong curiosity about health and disease has led me on a journey through diverse fields of study, including chiropractic, naturopathy, functional medicine, acupuncture, oxidative therapies, and German Biological Medicine. I believe that true and lasting health is achieved not by masking symptoms with medications, but by identifying and addressing the root causes, whether they be infections, toxins, hormonal imbalances, poor diet, or emotional trauma. At ICIM, I approach each patient’s unique health journey with compassion, creativity, and a commitment to finding real solutions. I listen carefully, think outside the box, and never give up on helping my patients find lasting answers and renewed hope on their path to wellness.

Dr. Darian Askew, DMD is a cosmetic and general dentist based in Eastern North Carolina and the founder of The Dr. D Project, a community-focused initiative dedicated to mentorship, education, and expanding access to oral health care. Dr. Askew provides comprehensive dental treatment with a focus on smile aesthetics, preventive care, and patient education, while also contributing to media discussions on dentistry, community outreach, and healthcare pathways. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Darian Askew is known for his work in community service, student mentorship, and public health advocacy across North Carolina. Through speaking engagements, collaborations with local organizations, and media features, he works to promote oral health awareness and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals. His mission is to deliver modern, patient-centered dentistry while building programs that strengthen communities and expand access to care.

Dr. James Lyons, M.D., is an internationally trained physician that was born in Germany. He is the son of a teacher and army veteran and was raised in Texas, but traveled extensively during his medical training. From medical rotations in French Hospital Systems, to his training in Miami at Ryder Trauma medical center and psychiatric training at TGK Prison, his depth of knowledge for those in acute crises is vast. In addition to his doctorate in medicine, Dr. Lyons also holds a Masters of Medical Sciences and coordinated research trials for schizophrenia pharmaceutical treatments in Dallas, TX. He completed his residency in Rural Michigan as a Family Medicine Physician, where he made home visits, and was rigorously trained in all aspects of medical care from delivering and caring for newborns, to end of life care. In his final year of training, he was named chief resident of this program. After 3 additional years practicing in rural east texas as a hospitalist in the acute setting, he, his wife, and their 4 children now reside back in Texas where he was raised, where his parents are retired, and where his sister works as a registered nurse in hospital leadership. Dr. Lyons continues to practice medicine in the acute setting as a hospitalist and emergency room physician in the greater Austin area. Aside from direct patient care, Dr. Lyons provides medical expertise and consulting while also being actively involved in performance improvement, infection control, and medical executive committees in the hospitals where he practices.

I am a practicing clinical pharmacist with over 20 years of experience and a graduate of St. John’s University School of Pharmacy in Queens, NY. With an undergraduate background in compounding and natural medicine, I have served in various capacities across the pharmaceutical industry before founding Fusion Medical Care in Scottsdale, AZ. My career is defined by my dedication to a balanced approach between natural and allopathic medicine, a passion that led me to develop a complete wellness center housing multiple integrative practitioners. Beyond my foundational education, I have advanced my specialized training through the Professional Compounding Centers of America and am a Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Anti-Aging Health Practitioners. I believe that my role as a pharmacist offers the perfect opportunity to fuse naturopathic and allopathic care, acting as a dedicated advocate for my patients' pharmacological and wellness needs. My mission is to empower patients to look and feel amazing by following my core philosophy: "Let your food be your medicine, your kitchen be your pharmacy, and your lifestyle be your doctor". My innovative approach to healthcare has earned me national recognition, including an honor in Marquis Who’s Who and a featured interview with VoyagePhoenix highlighting my journey and the mission behind Fusion Medical Care.

Dr. Rimas Geiga is a distinguished professional with a diverse skill set, serving as a Medical Doctor, Registered Dietician, and Clinic Nutritionist. With a solid foundation in healthcare, he plays a pivotal role as a private advisor to a consortium of companies operating in the health and wellness sector, offering valuable insights and strategic guidance. In addition to his advisory role, Dr. Geiga is actively engaged in hospital work, bringing his expertise to the forefront of patient care. His commitment to providing quality healthcare is evident in his contributions to the medical field, where he tirelessly works to enhance the well-being of those under his care. Beyond his medical pursuits, Dr. Geiga finds joy in various hobbies that contribute to his well-rounded personality. An avid enthusiast of culinary arts, he explores the world of flavors through his cooking endeavors. Dr. Geiga also embraces an active lifestyle, indulging in cycling adventures that not only promote physical fitness but also reflect his passion for outdoor activities. Wine tasting stands out as another of Dr. Geiga's interests, where he enjoys unraveling the complexities of different varietals and appreciating the artistry behind each bottle. His love for travel allows him to explore diverse cultures, further broadening his perspectives and enriching his experiences. Dr. Rimas Geiga's multifaceted professional background, combined with his dedication to health and wellness, showcases a holistic approach to his career. His commitment to patient care, coupled with a vibrant array of hobbies, underscores his well-balanced and dynamic presence in both the medical and personal spheres of life.