Thank you to all of our Early Supporters!
Matt Abernethy
Neurocrine Biosciences
Drs. Karen & Edwin Su
Lesley Holroyd, RN
Ashley & Jes Barron
Seattle Children’s Hospital
Mark Kennedy
Heather Frady, RN
AFN USA, LLC
LB Industries, Inc.
Dr. Richard Rink
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Richard Rink, MD, is a nationally and internationally recognized pediatric urologist at Riley Hospital for Children whose career is defined by surgical excellence, innovation, and lifelong dedication to children. Recently honored with the American Academy of Pediatrics Medal in Urology- the specialty’s highest award- Dr. Rink is renowned for his technical precision, relentless pursuit of improved outcomes, and steadfast commitment to enhancing patients’ quality of life. He has focused much of his work on improving surgical techniques and long-term outcomes for children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, helping shape standards of care through thoughtful innovation, careful follow-up, and patient-centered decision-making.
An influential mentor, educator, and program builder, Dr. Rink founded the Pediatric Urology Fellowship Program at the IU School of Medicine, training 25 fellows, many of whom now lead programs nationwide. As division chief from 1989 to 2012, he grew Riley Children’s pediatric urology service from a single surgeon into a world-renowned, multidisciplinary team celebrated for excellence across the full spectrum of pediatric urologic care. Colleagues credit his leadership, vision, and high standards as the foundation of Riley’s global reputation in pediatric urology.
Robert Farber, PhD
Pioneer Award
Robert (Bob) Farber, PhD, is Vice President of Clinical Development and Program Team Leadership at Neurocrine Biosciences. Over more than 28 years in the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Farber has held a wide range of roles spanning regulatory affairs, clinical science, clinical leadership, and program leadership at Quintiles/IQVIA, Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Meritage Pharma (now Takeda), and Neurocrine Biosciences.
Throughout his career, Dr. Farber has been driven by a strong desire to develop therapies that make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families facing serious and often underserved medical conditions. He has played an instrumental role in the development of several FDA-approved therapies, including Nuplazid®, Ingrezza®, Eohilia®, and most recently Crenessity®. The latter two programs focused on rare diseases, reflecting his long-standing commitment to areas of high unmet need.
Dr. Farber began working in the field of CAH research in 2012, and over the past 14 years has built deep and lasting connections within the CAH community. Through his engagement with CARES Foundation, he has developed a strong collaborative relationship with CARES Executive Director, Dina Matos, and has worked closely with patients, families, and advocates to better understand their experiences and priorities. During this time, he led the cross-functional program team for two investigational therapies, verucerfont and crinecerfont—both CRF type 1 receptor antagonists—with crinecerfont ultimately receiving FDA approval and being commercialized as Crenessity®. This work has been guided by a sustained sense of responsibility, partnership, and respect for the CAH community.
Dr. Farber earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from California Lutheran University and a Master’s degree and PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience from the University of California, San Diego.
Sue Shirey
Community Partner Award
Sue Shirey founded The James Shirey Foundation in memory of her son, James, whose life was tragically cut short in 2009 at the age of 14 due to an acute adrenal crisis. In the aftermath of her loss, Sue searched for answers, support, and understanding—and found both community and purpose through CARES Foundation. She went on to volunteer as a support group leader for the Southern California region, connecting with other parents and helping families navigate the often overwhelming world of a CAH diagnosis.
Through these connections, Sue transformed her grief into action. In 2014, she launched The James Party, a small “party with a purpose” that she hoped would raise $1,000. Instead, the first event raised $12,000 for CARES Foundation. Over the years, the gathering grew into a beloved community tradition, raising more than $350,000 for various charities, including over $100,000 benefiting CARES Foundation alone.
James was a bright, compassionate young boy whose spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Sue’s work is a living tribute to his life—driven by a mother’s enduring love and a deep commitment to education, awareness, and advocacy for children and families affected by CAH. Through her Foundation, Sue continues to honor James’s legacy while working to ensure that other families never have to face the same heartbreak.
Thank you to our incredible Honorees!
CONTACT
2414 Morris Avenue, Ste 110
Union, NJ 07083
Phone: (908) 364-0272
Toll Free: (866) 227-3737
Fax: (908) 686-2019
contact@caresfoundation.org
