About

Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia: Our Board Members

A group of people with glanzmann's thrombasthenia standing in front of a screen.

Glanzmann's Research Foundation is a beacon of hope for those affected by Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia (GT). Our board members, who hail from across the U.S., have personal experiences with GT, making them passionate advocates for our cause. Meet these inspiring individuals below:

Two women with Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia posing for a photo at a restaurant.
Taylor Anne Burtz
President, Chairperson
Taylor's mother, Helen Smith, founded the Glanzmann's Research Foundation. Growing up immersed in the world of GT, Taylor, along with her sister Julia, took over the Foundation after their mother's passing. She considers the Glanzmann's community her family and is honored to contribute to the cause.
A young woman smiles while holding a glass of wine.
Julia Smith
Assistant Vice President
Julia has been the face of the Glanzmann's Research Foundation since its inception in 2001 by her mother, Helen Smith. She now shares the role of co-founder with her sister, Taylor Burtz, and serves as the Assistant Vice President while completing her college education.
Peter Zdziarski
Peter Zdziarski
Vice President
Peter was one of the first diagnosed GT patients in Massachusetts. He understands the power of community and is dedicated to ensuring that no one with GT feels alone.
A woman with Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia wearing a blue dress.
Sherry Crutchfield
Board Director
Sherry was initially misdiagnosed with Von Willebrand's disease. After her correct diagnosis of Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia, she found a family in the GT community and is honored to serve on the board.
A woman with Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia standing in front of a tree in a cemetery.
Melissa Zdziarski
Assistant Secretary
Melissa's son, Peter, was diagnosed with Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia 28 years ago. She found support in the GT community and is honored to serve on the board, hoping to make a difference for GT families worldwide.
A woman and a young girl posing for a selfie, highlighting their bond despite Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia.
Cris Swain
Board Director
Cris, an educator with a daughter diagnosed with Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia, has found support and solace in the GT community. She is honored to contribute to the cause as a board member.
A girl with red hair sitting in a car, affected by Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia.
Emily Kichline
Board Director
Emily was diagnosed with Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia at 2 months old. The GRF has been a major source of support and motivation throughout her life, and she is honored to serve on the board.
A woman with Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia smiling in front of a tree.
Aidana Plummer
Board Director
Aidana, along with her brother, has GT. She is thrilled to be a part of the Glanzmann's Research Foundation and contribute to the GT family.
A woman with Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia in a polka dot dress standing in front of a painting.
Gretchen Plummer
Board Director
Gretchen, mother of two children with GT, is honored to serve on the board of the foundation started by her friend Helen Smith.