About

CHRISTINA MILLER

WARRIOR OF CRAFT AND SURPRISE

Career field: Cosmetology.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I’ve been personally inspired by Shay to help create a community to support cancer survivors across the valley, state and country! This organization will help not only survivors, but those who surround them daily as well.

ANGELA PRESCOTT

WARRIOR OF VOLUNTEERS

Career field: Physical Therapist & Cancer Survivor.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: As a cancer survivor, I want to give back to my community by helping survivors. It’s my goal to provide assistance, support and interactions for those completing cancer treatments on a local scale and in the future on a county, state and national level.

Dr. Sonja Fung

WARRIOR OF EDUCATION

Career field: Naturopathic Doctor.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I have a strong family history of cancer and I’ve experience firsthand the difficulties of cancer care. Shay’s Warriors fits in with what I strongly believe in, which is education, eradicating misinformation and supporting our Coachella Valley community.

MARISA RIVERA

WARRIOR OF BEAUTY

Career Field:  Business Managing Partner & Licensed Medical Esthetician.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I treasure moments in my life that I can give back and make a difference. Being a part of Shays Warriors allows me to give from my heart while also educating and being there for those who need it the most. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful organization ~ we are stronger together!

Jeanne Perafan, NP

WARRIOR EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Career Field: Family Nurse Practicioner.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization? My father was diagnosed with glioblastoma in March of 2019.  He passed in May of 2019.  Even being in healthcare, I was left devastated and confused at how quickly this disease can change the life of the person with cancer and those that love them. Having attended a few of Shay's Warrior's events, I found an opportunity to not only grow in my own awareness, but, also to have the opportunity to be of service and help empower others during their cancer journey. 

Maddy Botello

WARRIOR OF CONNECTIONS

Career Field: Restaurateur & Hospitality Management.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I'm part of this organization because I lost my mom to cancer, and I've experienced firsthand the transformative power of a positive and healing journey. I believe in the strength of human connection and our collective purpose to support each other in living life to its fullest. My goal is to provide people with the opportunity to discover new perspectives, build community, and foster connections, adding vibrant colors to life's canvas even in the face of adversity.

JASON PARR

WARRIOR GRANT WRITER

Career field: Professor of Law & Accounting.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: To recognize that certain things in life are more important. To offer my skills and help in areas that work towards Shay's Warriors life after cancer successfully reaching its mission and goals.

VICTOR LAMKAY

WARRIOR GRANT ADVISOR

Career Field:Retired Educator & Administrator, Grant Researcher.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization? I have been motivated by Shay's dedication and enthusiasm for this cause. I value so much the mission and the goals of Shay's Warriors, and I am inspired to contribute in all ways that I am able.

Shaun Murphy

WARRIOR ADVOCATE

Career Field: Attorney at Law & Cancer Survivor.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization? As someone who survived the diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma, I want to help people adjust to and make the most of their life post diagnosis and treatment so they can maximize their enjoyment and not let their cancer define their lives.

ADVISORS - ADVOCATES - AMBASSADORS

Malia Botello

WARRIOR ADVOCATE

Career field: Health and Wellness Industry.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: the answer is simple: honor. On the day when my mother was finally freed from her suffering of cancer, I made a solemn commitment to dedicate my entire life to honoring her memory, through every high and every low. Upon joining Shay's Warriors, my list of motivations expanded, and hope became an even more profound driving force in my life. Now, I live by the principles of hope and honor, and I can't think of a better place than this organization to make a meaningful impact. 

FRAN ESPINOSA

WARRIOR AMBASSADOR

Career field: Retired Admininstation Assistant & Cancer Survivor.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I am a part of Shay' Warriors because the retreat brought me back to life. I went through breast cancer during the pandemic when everyone was still scared and working from home. Shay's Warriors, Life After Cancer Retreat made me realize I had gone numb as a survival mode my retreat sisters and the amazing work of the retreat team brought me back to life. I want to be able to help support Shay's so we can send more women to this amazing retreat and help them grow and heal.

Annissa Ceja, ND

WARRIOR ADVOCATE

Career field: Naturopathic Doctor & Cancer Survivor.

Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: am part of Shay’s Warriors because I am deeply committed to health equity and transforming the cancer care continuum for all cancer survivors to become cancer thrivers. My personal journey with cancer revealed the vital importance of addressing the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of healing, both during and far beyond treatment. I hope that my clinical knowledge as a doctor and my lived experience as a cancer survivor can help provide support and resources that others need to thrive.