Our Advisors 

The Foundation to Fight H-ABC/TUBB4A is guided by world-class scientific experts and a committed board of parents and professionals who are united by one purpose: to bring hope, support, and solutions to families facing H-ABC/TUBB4A-related leukodystrophy.

LOGO: Purple background with black text that reads "Foundation to Fight H-ABC".

    Key Scientific Advisors       

Our Scientific Advisory Board includes leading researchers and clinicians in neurology, genetics, and rare diseases. They provide critical insight and ensure that our research funding is guided by rigorous science and focused on the most promising therapeutic pathways.

Professional headshot of Dr. DiFazio with short dark hair in a light blue shirt and patterned tie, smiling against a dark background.

Marc P. DiFazio, MD

Dr. Marc P. DiFazio is President of the Medical Staff and Medical Director of Ambulatory Neurology at Children’s National Hospital. With extensive expertise in pediatric neurology, he leads clinical and operational care for outpatient neurological services. Dr. DiFazio’s clinical interests include Tourette syndrome, migraine, concussion, behavioral neurology, and the use of botulinum toxin in neurological conditions. As a respected leader and physician, he contributes valuable guidance as a medical advisor to the Foundation to Fight H-ABC, supporting its mission to improve outcomes for children affected by rare neurological disorders.

Dr. Gray wearing a white lab coat with 'Southwestern' embroidered on it, smiling, standing in front of a window with city buildings outside.

Steven J. Gray, PhD

Dr. Steven J. Gray is an Associate Professor and Director of the Viral Vector Facility at UT Southwestern Medical Center, with appointments in the Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Biology. He is an expert in gene therapy and viral vector development, focusing on creating innovative treatments for neurological disorders affecting the nervous system. As a scientific advisor to the Foundation to Fight H-ABC, Dr. Gray provides valuable guidance to advance research and develop gene therapies aimed at treating this rare genetic disease. His work plays a critical role in driving progress toward effective therapies for H-ABC patients.

      Board Members    

Our Board of Directors brings real experience, compassion, and strategic leadership to the mission—driving awareness, advocacy, and action every day. Together, this team leads with heart, expertise, and an unshakable commitment to the children and families affected by H-ABC/TUBB4A-related leukodystrophy.

Oscar “Britt” Sloan
   President & Co-Founder    

Britt co-founded the Foundation to Fight H-ABC/TUBB4A in 2015 alongside his wife, Michele, after their daughter Elouise was diagnosed. He brings over 40 years of experience in sales and marketing, including owning and operating his own business.
Britt’s leadership guides the Foundation’s mission to support families and accelerate research.

Michele and Elouise outdoors on a sunny day. Michele has red hair and glasses, smiling, the Elouise (who has H-ABC) has brown hair, sunglasses, and an open-mouthed expression, with green trees and a blue sky with clouds in the background.

Michele Sloan
     Chief Operating Officer      

Michele Sloan co-founded the Foundation to Fight H-ABC/TUBB4A in 2015 with her husband, Britt, following their daughter’s diagnosis with H-ABC. As Chief Operating Officer, she brings a strong background in finance, with expertise in valuation and feasibility analysis, to lead the Foundation’s operations. Michele combines her professional skills with a deep commitment to advancing research and supporting families.

Picture of William Miller, a man with a beard and mustache wearing a suit jacket and dress shirt outdoors with an urban backdrop.

        William Miller      
            Secretary             

William Miller serves as Secretary and is a corporate attorney specializing in life sciences. His expertise in strategic transactions and corporate governance strengthens the Foundation’s leadership and helps ensure effective growth and compliance.

Headshot of Diane Gooley, a woman with brown, wavy hair, wearing gold earrings, looking directly at the camera.

Diane Gooley
        Board Member       

Diane Gooley provides strategic guidance in program development with a focus on digital technology. As a Board Member and finance advisor, her expertise helps expand the Foundation’s impact through innovative solutions.

Christopher Drescher
          Board Member         

Christopher Drescher is a Board Member with over 30 years of experience in corporate strategy and scientific business development. He advises on scientific advancements, grant management, and negotiation, guiding the Foundation’s funding efforts.

A logo with the letters 'RZ' in black inside a a purple circle on a white background.

Robert Ziarko
     Fundraising Chair      

Robert Ziarko, former Logistics Manager at General Motors, leads fundraising efforts. With extensive experience at St. Jude’s Hospital, he is dedicated to raising critical support for research and families affected by H-ABC.

Dedicated to Accountability, Advocacy, and Action.

VIEW THE THE FOUNDATION’S 501(c3) STATUS & FINANCIALS
TAX ID 81-0950905