For Patients & Families

Since our inception in 1999, the Pediatric Patient and Family Advisory Council (PPFAC) has served as a national model for healthcare institutions. By partnering with staff members of Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, we help improve the patient experience and ensure patient- and family-centered care.

What we do

• Advocate for expanded support services, including our Transitioning Off Treatment program, which guides families whose child is nearing the end of his or her treatment
• Partner with hospital administration for more flexibility, including the Home Hydration Program, which allows patients to hydrate at home instead of overnight at the hospital
• Improve infrastructure and physical spaces, including the renovations to the Jimmy Fund Clinic and Boston Children's Oncology Unit
• Implement more family-friendly initiatives, including the Weekend Initiative, a monthly coffee hour during which patients and families can drop in to share their thoughts and ask pediatric council members questions
  

Get involved

Do you want to share your voice and experience, guide the development of projects, and shape key decisions that affect the patient care and family experience at Dana-Farber? Contact us today.

You do not need to be a member to provide your input, although new applicants are always welcome. Five to six key administrative staff members serve as voting members of the Councils. Other staff leaders are invited guests and routinely attend meetings.

Read our brochure about the Pediatric Patient and Family Advisory Council, including how you can become a member. You may also call 857-215-1417 or email pfac@dfci.harvard.edu.

Apply to join the Pediatric Patient and Family Advisory Council

Co-chairs, Pediatric Patient and Family Advisory Council (PPFAC)

Mark Pettengill

Mark's daughter was two when she became a patient at the Jimmy Fund Clinic. Mark feels strongly that every family going through cancer treatment should be able to make informed decisions and be active partners with their care team.

Meghan Shea

Meghan walked alongside her brother Matt through a decade of treatment at the Jimmy Fund. Meghan joined the Pediatric PFAC to contribute to the ongoing work of supporting and advocating for patients and families as they experience childhood and adolescent cancer. Meghan is interested in equitable care and outcomes for all patients, and in helping patients and families to tell the stories of their cancer journey.

Learn about the Adult Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC)