Support CAN Make a Difference
Mission of Cancer Alliance Network
Our mission is to help individuals facing a cancer diagnosis receive the dignity they deserve by offering non-medical financial assistance for essential living expenses and other vital support programs designed to benefit both individuals with cancer and their families in Collier and Lee Counties (for children and adults) and Hendry and Glades Counties (for children only).
By delivering unparalleled support, advocating for patients, and developing long-term, innovative solutions, our vision is to enrich cancer care, enhance the quality of life, and improve outcomes for individuals and families in Southwest Florida.
A Mission to Help
A Vision of Support
To transform the landscape of cancer care in Southwest Florida by addressing the financial and emotional challenges of cancer.
Our mission comes to life every day. See how in this short video that highlights our work and the impact of your support.
Together, We CAN
The Cancer Alliance Network Story
Over 20 years ago, in 2002, a group of dedicated volunteers recognized a pressing need in our community to support local families and individuals affected by cancer. Cancer Alliance Network – or CAN – was created to stand by our loved ones, friends, and neighbors during one of the most challenging times in their lives.
Faced with the overwhelming uncertainties that come with a cancer diagnosis and life-changing medical decisions, as well as the mounting pressures of everyday expenses, CAN is here to help when it seems like there is nowhere else to turn. Together, with our incredible volunteers, generous donors, and dedicated staff, we can bring hope and support to those who need it most.
CAN is Here for You
Cancer Alliance Network Team
Neftali Feliciano
Chief Executive Officer
Michelle Ciuffetelli
Development Director
Veronica Morley
Lead Case Manager
Se Habla Español
Kristie Sammons
Programs Director
Chelle Sutyak
Administrative Operations Director
Board Members
Samuel Colburn, Esq.(MBA) Board President Attorney, Partner, Woods, Weidenmiller, Michetti & Rudnick Law Firm
Nicole Waid, Esq. Board Vice President Attorney, Founding Partner, Pierson and Ferdinand Law LLP
Ashlynn Reeder, CPA Board Treasurer Senior Manager | Regional Director, HBK CPAs and Consultants
Kevin Dolan, MBA Board Secretary Retired
Emily K. Bua Board Member Partner, Bua Bell Group at John R. Wood Properties
Susan Frantz Board Member Founder and President, Frantz Marketing
Dr. Marc Guttman Board Member Urologist, Precision Healthcare Specialists
Linda Leatherbury Board Member CEO, The Leatherbury Group
Ben Levene Board Member President, Owner, Peace River Pharmacy Group, Center Pharmacy
Dr. Abby Miknaitis Board Member Physician, Blue Concierge Medicine
Dr. Sonal Sura (MBA) Board Member Radiation Oncologist, Advocate Radiation Oncology
Dr. Joel Waltzer Board Member Dermatologist, Riverchase Dermatology
Honorary Board Members
Elizabeth Sanders
Founding Board Member
Retired
Erikka Thalheimer Founding Board Member
Michael E. Watkins Founding Board Member Retired
Salvatore Greche Past Board Member Realtor, Premiere Plus Realty
Scott Hansen Past Board Member
Ed Morton Past Board Member Retired
Sean Nolan Past Board Vice President CPA, Rogers Wood Hill Starman & Gustason
Cynthia Pisani Past Board Treasurer CPA, HBK
Rosa Rodriguez Past Board Treasurer Financial Controller, Allen Concrete & Masonry, Inc.
Erica Vanover Past Board Secretary Senior Vice President, First Horizon Bank
Dr. Saman Freedman Past Board Vice President Dentist/Owner, Aesthetic Dentistry at Bayfront
Dr. Mark Bloomston Past Board Member Surgical Oncologist, Lee Health Surgical Oncology
Cancer Alliance Network
Financial Accountability
At CAN, we know how important it is for our supporters and donors to feel confident in our mission and stewardship. That’s why we’re committed to transparency and accountability, proudly holding Gold Transparency status with GuideStar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, you’ll find answers to common questions about Cancer Alliance Network, including how we support our community, the services we offer, and how you can get involved. If you have any additional questions about our mission, how we can assist you, or if you simply want to reach out, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Cancer Alliance Network, founded in 2002, is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping local children, families, and individuals affected by cancer. We provide non-medical financial assistance, support, and resources to adults and children in need in Collier and Lee Counties and children in Hendry and Glades Counties.
CAN assists over 400 families annually. Our services are aimed at ensuring that those with cancer and their families can focus on recovery without added financial stress.
CAN offers critical support by covering non-medical, essential living expenses such as rent/mortgage, utilities, vehicle payments, groceries, and gas for people in cancer treatment. We also provide free support groups, nutrition programs, personal care resources, cancer support supplies, family events, and resource and referral support.
All donations to CAN serve our local community and are tax-deductible. Our funding comes from fundraising events, grants, foundations, and generous contributions from individuals, local businesses, and corporate sponsors.
CAN is the only organization of its kind in Southwest Florida that provides the types of financial assistance and support services we offer. We do not duplicate the services of other agencies or community organizations but instead complement them with our unique programs.
You can support CAN by participating in our fundraising events, making a donation, or volunteering your time. Every contribution helps us continue to provide vital support to those in our local community affected by cancer.
