Gail Garfield Dadio received her undergraduate degree in Occupational Therapy from Quinnipiac University, master’s degree in health science from Nova Southeastern University and in 2022 a Post Professional Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy. She is a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) and Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) providing rehabilitative services to several populations, including the breast cancer survivor. Gail is also a part-time faculty and academic advisor in the Health Science program at Quinnipiac University.
“This foundation was created to provide lymphedema awareness and education for the breast cancer survivors. Empowering caregivers, first responders and medical personnel to assist in the prevention of lymphedema. Helping this population realize they are at risk for this chronic disease is the essence of our mission at the Brace for L.I.F.E. Foundation. Ultimately, our hope is to enable the breast cancer survivor to live independently and function efficiently; live their L.I.F.E.”
Steve received his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Stonehill College and his Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Assumption College. He is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and has worked for 30+ years providing rehabilitative services to the physically and emotionally disabled, as well as those who suffer from work-related injuries. The core of Steve’s service provision is to increase the quality of each individual’s life, however that may be.
Steve has presented nationally on workplace safety, aggressive behavior/anger management, and on bridging the gap between physical and emotional rehabilitation. He is currently employed as a Senior Director with a national case management company.
Austin holds a business degree from Babson College and serves the Brace for L.I.F.E. Foundation by consulting with strategic planning and value creation for the organization. He is currently employed in strategic development for a major aerospace corporation and resides in Connecticut.
Lauren is a graduate of Simmons College with a degree in Physical Therapy and a minor in Sociology of Health. She has spent numerous years in the New Haven area specializing in the treatment of orthopedic conditions. The majority of Lauren's career has focused on restoring a person's functional mobility to improve their quality of life. Lauren's passion for helping others in maintaining a healthy lifestyle has made it a natural progression to join her friend and colleague in educating the community at large of the importance of lymphedema precautions through the Brace for L.I.F.E. Foundation.
Marlene has worked for a Board of Education for over 20 years in a position of leadership with data compliance for the state. Over many years, she has brought her expertise and this skillset to her philanthropy work. Through her commitment to her community and understanding the Brace for L.I.F.E. Foundation's mission, it has been a natural fit for Marlene to be an agent of change and the Event Coordinator for the foundation, to continue her work of servicing others.
