The people behind the Functional Medicine Research and Technology Center
Sunjya Schweig, MD
Founder, President and board member
Dr. Schweig is an expert in complex chronic illnesses which require rigorous investigation and management. He has been studying, teaching, and practicing integrative and functional medicine for over 25 years. As Founder and President of the California Center for Functional Medicine (CCFM), and the Functional Medicine Research and Technology Center, Dr. Schweig believes that an individualized, data-driven, precision medicine approach is fundamental for managing patients with chronic illness.
Lia Gaertner, MS
Director of Programs and Development
Lia Gaertner is a dedicated advocate for functional medicine research and the health of firefighters, bringing decades of experience in bioengineering, ethnobotany, and translational medicine. With a Master of Translational Medicine from UCSF-UC Berkeley and a Master of Science in Ethnobotany from Cornell University, Lia has spent her career at the intersection of science, innovation, and patient advocacy.
With deep expertise in integrative medicine and a passion for public health, Lia aims bridge the gap between scientific innovation and real-world healthcare solutions for firefighters. By collaborating with universities, biotech companies, and first responder communities, she is committed to improving health outcomes for those who put their lives on the line every day.
Board Members
Stephanie Brill
Board member
Stephanie is a serial entrepreneur and has founded and co-founded four non-profits, started multiple small businesses and is the chair of two non-profit boards. Having been diagnosed with a chronic illness herself, and as a mother to two children also dealing with chronic conditions, Stephanie is committed to streamlining the diagnosis, treatment and management of chronic illness. She is also the author of several landmark books.
Shar Bacchus
Board member
Shar is a software engineering and operations professional. Shar has lived with an autoimmune disease since childhood and is constantly seeking opportunities to participate in promoting health and social justice through technology. Shar is committed to helping provide better care through science, innovation and holistic approaches to health.
Michelle Fulbrook
Board member
Michelle Fulbrook has over 25 years of financial expertise. She has served as a consultant and in senior financial positions in both private and public companies with revenues from $5 to $250 million, most notably as CFO of Coudert Brothers LLP. In the last 8 years, she expanded her consulting to include fundraising, corporate sponsorship, marketing, public relations, and strategic development. Michelle has lived with Lyme and Autoimmune diseases for 17 years and has first hand experience with the significant gaps in the ability to diagnose, support, and effectively treat people with chronic illnesses.
