Our Team
Dr. Bernard Chinnasami
Founder and CEO
Dr. Bernard Chinnasami graduated from Madras Medical University and completed his oncology fellowship at Wake Forest University. He is currently the medical director of the Hayworth Cancer Center, as a board-certified oncologist. He founded Cancer GPS in order to address the need he saw in his patients to have accurate information on all-things-cancer. In his words: “The goal of Cancer GPS is to create the Google of cancer information.”
Forrest White
Head of Marketing and Caregiving
A graduate from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Forrest holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and earned his Master of Public Affairs from there as well. He brings with him a vast array of experience ranging from customer service to public relations to Cancer GPS. Forrest’s mother is a three-time cancer survivor as these experiences have shaped him into having a greater faith and focus on helping those with cancer and their families get through challenging times.
Ellen Winnett
Program Director
Ellen Winnett is the Program Director for Cancer GPS. She holds a masters degree in reading and elementary education and has 37 years experience as an educator. She is also a breast cancer survivor and knows first-hand the challenges patients face during and after treatment. These qualifications make her a good fit for planning educational and social events for survivors. Ellen challenges herself to plan creative, purposeful events that are enjoyable and fun for patients and caregivers. You most likely can recognize her by her many themed costumes she wears for special days and occasions. Ellen delights in providing joy and smiles to others.
Mike Jones
Director of Mentorship
Michael Jones is a 3 time cancer survivor and a paraplegic due to a gunshot wound. With a BS degree in psychology from Winston Salem State University and a strong spiritual background, he can recognize and relate to people who are struggling with life situations. He helped develop our mentor and volunteer program for Cancer GPS and now provides training for interested candidates.
Adam Chinnasami
Head of Operations
Adam Chinnasami is the head of operations for Cancer GPS and is an experienced data scientist who studied quantitative biology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He specializes in the analysis of genomic data sets using computer science and machine learning techniques with the goal to be able to personalize medicine to each patient. He, cofounded VRELAX, Cancer GPS’ nationally acclaimed virtual reality program for chemotherapy patients alongside his brother Alex. During his free time, he enjoys reading books, cooking, and walking his German shepherd and also writes for Global Glam, a luxury lifestyle magazine.
Alex Chinnasami
Director of Innovation and Strategy
Alex Chinnasami is the director of innovation and strategy at Cancer GPS and is a social scientist with a focus in nutrition science from NC State University. He cofounded VRELAX, Cancer GPS’s nationally acclaimed virtual reality program for chemotherapy patients alongside his brother Adam. Alex is an architect in AI development specializing in the field of medicine where he uses his skills as a social scientist to blend the needs of engineers with the needs of healthcare professionals to ensure innovative and ethical AI implementation across healthcare systems. He enjoys cooking, playing tennis, and playing with his new puppy Hiccup.
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Hao Tong
AI Engineer
Hao Tong is an experienced machine learning engineer specializing in the application of machine learning techniques in the medical field. With a strong background in statistical modeling, data analysis, and algorithm development, he has successfully implemented innovative solutions to drive advancements in healthcare. His expertise lies in developing machine learning algorithms for medical image analysis, clinical decision support systems, disease diagnosis, and personalized treatment recommendations.
Our Volunteers
Help Support Cancer GPS
Cancer GPS is a 501(c)(3) organization, and your donations allow us to keep providing services to cancer patients and their families. Thank you for your continued support.