Dennis Argyrakis began his journey with MEN2b when he was born over 50 years ago. Little was known about MEN2b at the time. Thankfully his parents brought him to the MAYO clinic where they met Dr. Donald Zimmerman. Dr. Zimmerman put Dennis on a path to not only live, but to be able to thrive.

Dennis has been a firefighter since 1999. He retired from the Elmwood Park Fire Department as a Captain. His passion for teaching has led him to the Pittsboro Fire Department as the Division Chief of Training. Dennis has also started a couple businesses. One business was a CPR Company and another was a property business that eventually led him to get his real estate license.

Dennis is married to his beautiful wife Michele and they have 3 wonderful children. Their youngest, Daniel, also has MEN2b.  Dennis believes Genesis 50:20, “What you have intended to harm me, God meant it for good.” This Foundation has been a calling for him since he was a teenager. Dennis is excited to see the Foundation, and its community, grow. Dennis is also focused on education for MEN2b patients and the medical professionals who treat MEN2bers.

Shelly Argyrakis is a wife of 20 years and proud mom of three, with both her husband and son living with MEN2b. A former Emergency Room professional and entrepreneur, she has always been passionate about helping others, from training healthcare providers in life-saving skills to building community through business. Today, Shelly channels her heart for service into raising awareness, fostering connection, and creating support for families impacted by MEN2B through her foundation.

Dr. Zimmerman is a retired pediatric endocrinologist who dedicated much of his career to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, following earlier years of service at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. With decades of experience caring for children and families impacted by complex conditions like MEN2b, he brings invaluable expertise and compassion to the board. Dr. Zimmerman is honored to support the foundation’s mission of raising awareness, building community, and advancing support for those affected by MEN2b.

Meredith Zimmerman is passionate about leveraging her background in media, broadcasting, and journalism to support and grow the foundation. As a second-generation individual living with MEN2B, the mission of this organization is deeply personal to her.

Having grown up with both a parent and sister diagnosed with MEN2B, Meredith’s commitment to this cause is further strengthened by the diagnosis of her youngest child, who was born with the condition. Her unique perspective as a second-generation MEN2B’er informs her work, especially in terms of the early intervention and care she received throughout her life, as well as the proactive advocacy she continues to pursue for her child’s care.

Michael LaGoe has over 25 years of experience in financial services, technology, and business development. He is passionate about helping businesses grow by connecting the dots between people, innovative solutions, and practical strategies. Michael served as the Committee Chair for Cub Scout Pack 95 for five years, demonstrating his commitment to community leadership and mentorship.

A devoted father of four, including a 21-year-old daughter with MEN2b, Michael's personal experiences have fueled his commitment to health advocacy. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, woodworking, music, live concerts, and family activities. Through his diverse expertise and hands-on approach, he enjoys contributing to the success of both individuals and organizations in his community.