Meet The Board Members
Quayvius D. Jones, Co-Founder
"As her son, I've witnessed my mother's resilience and passion firsthand. Supporting this nonprofit isn't just a professional responsibility, but a deeply personal one.
​Every initiative and every penny raised brings hope to those battling cancer. Standing by my mother's side in this mission is a privilege, as we strive to touch and heal lives together."
Shirlene Stafford, CEO
“Hello! I’m Shirlene Stafford, and I’m a cancer survivor. In 2010, I was informed that there was a strange-looking growth in my upper throat area that needs further testing, but I ignored this and moved forward in life.​
In 2016, I took my yearly exam. They told me once again about this strange growth, which had grown bigger. My test results showed that I had head and neck cancer, and I had to endure 10 weeks of daily radiation.​
I’m now a cancer advocate. I sit on two committees and one pharmaceutical committee that aim to help cancer patients, survivors, and their families throughout their journey and improving caregivers’ experiences.​
Right now, I’m doing whatever I can to help cancer patients and survivors.”
Thomas Walters, VP of Operations
In 2022, I begin to notice some unusual things happening with my body. After a week or so when things didn't improve and I started feeling worst, I immediately went to the emergency room. I was admitted that day and after several labs and test I was told I had Pancreatic Cancer.
I received rapid treatment and eventually surgery. I am happy to say that I am cancer free and I contribute it to God's grace, early detection and great doctors.
When I was introduced to Shirlene Stafford, CEO of Cancer Not My Friend and the organization's mission, I knew this was where I need to be so that I can give back to support others on their cancer journey.
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Cedric B Jones, Treasurer
As a board member of Cancer NOT My Friend, I pledge and look forward to assisting my other board members and the community with living a comfortable life while dealing with the trails and tribulations of cancer. ​
And pray that my 40 plus years in the medical field will be a great asset.
Benjamin Souter, Secretary
Benjamin has been an Atlanta native since 1997 and is originally from Toronto, Ontario where to this day he still calls his home. He graduated from Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville, GA with a Bachelors in Business Administration in 2009 and proceeded with obtaining a Dual Masters Degree in Business & Health Administration from Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA. Following his tenure at GSU he spent five years at Grady Memorial serving as both an Administrative Assistant and then moving up to Community Outreach within Grady's Cancer Center for Excellence from 2018-2023.
Benjamin is inspired every day to help those burdened by ANY form of cancer at ANY stage, having lost both his maternal grandmother who was taken too soon from this world by lung cancer as well as many friends and acquaintances who have fought this disease with incredible resolve and spirit. He hopes to bring further outreach to the surrounding Atlanta community in partnership with the Cancer Not My Friend non-profit.
Renee Campbell, Administrator
As a board member of Cancer NOT My Friend, I am committed to our vision of advocating for the healing process of cancer patients and survivors. ​
It is truly an honor to be part of a team that stands beside those in need, offering support, hope, and resources to ensure no one faces this battle alone.
Together, we can create a future where every survivor has the opportunity for a healthier, brighter tomorrow.
Dr. Patricia Fickling, Chaplain
Rev. Dr. Patricia Roberson-Fickling is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. She attended Atlanta Public School graduating from J. C. Muphy High School in 1976. While at Murphy she was very active in community and school activities. She is a member of Beulah Missionary Baptist Church (Decatur.) She is the Assistant Minister of Children, Tween, Youth, and Young Adult Ministry. She serves in the following ministries Glenda J. Black Ministers Spouses and Widows Guild as the president.
The former chairperson for the Board of Christian Education. Patricia is the current chaplain for the Women’s Ministry. Additionally, she has served on the strategic planning committee and the Beulah Experience Team. Her volunteerism includes being a former member of the Atlanta Public Schools Go Team, and chaplain at the Atlanta Airport Chaplaincy.
Dr. Fickling’s academic achievements are a graduate of Berry College (B.S.), American Public University (MBA), Columbia Southern University (MPA), and Jacksonville Theology Seminary with a Doctor of Ministry. During these academic endeavors, she achieved membership in the Omega Nu Lambda National Honor Society and The National Society of Leadership and Success.
Rev. Fickling is married to Rev. Leo Fickling, Jr. He is a Vietnam Veteran and an associate minister at Beulah. Together they have three adult children and four
grandchildren.
Rev. Dr. Fickling considers it an honor to serve on the Board of Cancer Not My Friend as their chaplain. It is her prayer that her years of experience in community engagement, leadership training, and strategic planning will be an asset to the continued growth of the organization.
Meet The Advisory Board
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Kedric Benefield, Board Advisor
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Kedric is a highly accomplished professional with extensive expertise in Information Technology, specializing in IT solutions, project management, and effective communication. Currently serving as a Senior IT Project Manager at Wellstar Hospital Systems, Kedric leverages a strategic approach to lead complex projects and drive transformative outcomes.
A graduate of Morehouse College with a B.A. in Business Administration, Kedric has further enhanced his skillset with certifications in AI Prompt Engineering, reflecting his commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation.
Passionate about the intersection of Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, and Business, Kedric has played a pivotal role in streamlining operations and improving organizational efficiency across various sectors. His ability to align technical solutions with business goals has consistently delivered measurable value.
Dedicated to community service, Kedric actively supports initiatives like the American Diabetes Association and Reflections of Trinity food pantry program, among other impactful organizations. His involvement underscores a commitment to creating positive change both professionally and personally.
Outside of work, Kedric enjoys spending quality time with his family, exploring culinary arts, and diving into thought-provoking books that fuel his creativity and balance.
Kedric is equally driven by a desire to make a difference in the fight against cancer. Having witnessed the profound impact of cancer on individuals and their families, Kedric is excited to join Cancer Not My Friend to contribute his skills, experiences, and dedication to impactful causes can help further the organization’s vision of creating a world where cancer is not a barrier to hope or health.