Meet Our
Board of Directors
Lindsay Spurgeon Founder & Executive Director
“It all begins with a story. From our experiences we form ideas. When we experience something tremendous and it stays with us, we will carry it with us always. In my case, it was a patient. I can’t tell my patient’s story, but I can share my idea inspired by this little newborn with the rest of the world. That is how I created NeoHERO. Whatever your story is, or whatever your idea is, what you do with it can make all the difference.”
Lindsay is a Board-Certified Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Board-Certified Neonatal-Pediatric Transport provider, a Trauma Certified Registered Nurse with Board Certification of Emergency Nursing, and a Certified Legal Nurse Consultant.
Dr. A. Merchak, MD Director
“Neonatal emergencies such as premature birth in the field are high risk and low frequency events. Research has shown that first responders are ill prepared to handle neonatal emergencies. All efforts that support first responders in dealing with those emergencies are supporting the babies, their families, and their communities. That is exactly what NeoHERO aims to do. As a neonatologist whose life has been dedicated to such a cause I see creating, supporting, and being part of NeoHERO's mission as a must.”
Dr. A. Merchak, MD is the Medical Director of Neonatal Services at Trident Health System. He is Board-Certified in both Pediatrics and Neonatal Medicine, with over 25 years of experience.
Ellen Lebold Charitable Relations & Fundraising
“Accepting a chair position on this foundation was a no-brainer for me. The idea behind NeoHERO involves a passion behind the mission, and I wanted to be all on-board. With my small business background, I knew I wanted to be involved with getting the word about this new foundation out in the world. I truly believe NeoHERO will be life-saving and I can’t wait to see where our teamwork and education takes this!”
Danielle Mercer Event Planning & Sponsor Relations
“I am a NICU mom. My daughter arrived six weeks early, but we were among the lucky ones—surrounded by a skilled NICU team, including NeoHERO founder Lindsay Spurgeon. Her arrival was fast, and it’s impossible not to think about what could have happened if she had been born at home or in transit. What if something had gone wrong and the first responders weren’t trained in neonatal resuscitation? That is why I joined NeoHERO. By combining my own experience with the close calls Lindsay has witnessed, I am committed to making sure every tiny warrior has a fighting chance—through education, training, and life-saving supply kits.”
DeAnna Danley Lead Educator & NRP Instructor
“I am honored to be a part of the NeoHERO Foundation, especially as a former paramedic myself. I have always felt there is a need for specific education related to this special population. As a former NICU mom, NICU nurse, and current NRP instructor, I am excited to ensure today’s EMS providers have the specialized training to care for any newborn baby.”