The Gillette Family Advisory Council (FAC) is a diverse group of parents, adult patients and staff who are committed to promoting family-centered care and improving the quality of care at Gillette. 

The FAC serves as an advisory resource for programs, departments, publications, committees or projects at Gillette by:

• Providing an avenue for understanding the needs of patients and families who use Gillette services
• Offering suggestions for improvement 
• Strengthening communication among patients, families, caregivers and staff

Eligibility:

The Family Advisory Council (FAC) is a dedicated group of up to 13 members, including:

• Parents and caregivers who have used Gillette services in the past year 
• Patients aged 18 and older who have used Gillette services in the past year 
• Gillette staff as co-facilitators 

FAC Member Expectations:

• Participation in one-hour meetings every other month
  • Meetings will be held virtually until further notice. 
• Commitment to serve on the council for at least one term of two years
• Commitment to improving care for all Gillette patients and families 

Application Process:

Applications are accepted through October 31 each year. Interviews and final selections occur in November. New family council members begin their two-year commitment in January. The first meeting of the year will be used for orientation and introductions of new and current members.

Complete and Send the DHS Background Study Form

Please email the completed DHS Background Study form to Lina Abdennabi (linaiabdennabi@gillettechildrens.com).

Family Members
Holli (daughter)

Home Town
Oak Grove, MN

Gillette Child's Diagnosis/Primary Condition
Osteogenesis Imperfecta

Gillette's Impact
After Holli was diagnosed with her genetic condition, we were left with several questions that no other institution could answer, until Gillette! Immediately we knew that there was going to be a team to help ensure that Holli wasn't going to be defined by this diagnosis. They answered all of our questions and reassured us of the treatments she would need. Gillette has become a family to us, and I wanted a way to give back. The FAC offered that and has been so rewarding.

Return to Member List

Family Members
MariAnne (spouse), Hannah, Hope, Noah, Peter, Jane, Oliver

Hometown
Elk River, MN

Gillette Diagnosis/Primary Condition
I have a condition called Distal arthrogryposis type 8, which is also known as DA8 or Multiple Pterygium Syndrome. It is a condition that is autosomal dominant which means my children have a 50% chance of inheriting it from me.

Gillette's Impact
Our story begins when I started going to Gillette as a child, seeing a village of specialists to support my growth and development. When my wife and I found out that some of our children may likely inherit this condition, it was a fairly easy decision as to where we would be looking for specialist care for them.

Return to Member List

Family Members
Mike (husband), Peyton, & Whitten

Home Town
Minneapolis, MN

Gillette Child's Diagnosis/Primary Condition
Our daughter Peyton is a medically complex kiddo with diagnoses affecting many different body functions. Her most significant Gillette endeavor was undergoing spinal traction followed by a spinal fusion utilizing Magec rods. She sees over 20 different doctors and therapists on a regular basis, so we are quite familiar with many of Gillette’s specialties.

Gillette's Impact
Gillette Children's hospital carries a warm spot in our family's hearts. From providing a one-stop-shop for all of Peyton's needs, to making a life-changing surgical procedure, to providing fun experiences like "Target's Winter Wonderland" - they are the best and we love them for it! Family, friends, and a community who will help facilitate your child reaching their full potential and living their best life!

Return to Member List

Family Members
Scott (husband), Ryan, Cameron

Hometown
Blaine, MN

Gillette Child's Diagnosis/Primary Condition
Our oldest has a rare, yet to be determined neuromuscular disease. Our youngest has Epilepsy.

Gillette's Impact
Our oldest has a rare unknown neuromuscular disease. His team of Gillette doctors has helped us each step of the way, trying to figure out his disease and what they can do for him. He has been seen by neurology, orthopedics, PMR, genetics, PT and OT. Our youngest had toe walking early on in life was recently diagnosed with Epilepsy. He’s has seen neurology and PMR. We have used many of the resources and departments available to us at Gillette! There is no other place we would rather have our kids be to get the care they are getting! To know that Gillette is in our backyard, 20 minutes away from some of the best care possible is very reassuring! We are thankful to all of the Gillette staff for what they have done and continue to do for our boys!

Return to Member List

Family Members
Wayne (husband), Matthew

Hometown
Maplewood, MN

Gillette Child's Diagnosis/Primary Condition
Primary diagnosis is Down syndrome. He does have other diagnoses, one of which is Scoliosis.

Gillette's Impact
Gillette Specialty Healthcare has been a Godsend to my son and our family. The care is second to none and the providers are extremely caring and knowledgeable. We have noticed a culture that encourages inclusion and acceptance for ALL. We feel as though we are partners in our son’s care, which is very important to us. We highly recommend Gillette for an exceptional healthcare experience for your child.

Return to Member List