Cancer Predisposition Program Team

Joanna L. Weinstein, MD

Board-certified in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Dr. Weinstein directs the Cancer Predisposition Program at Lurie Children's. Working with genetic counselors and other subspecialists, she ensures that the program provides comprehensive genetic counseling services, directs personalized genetic testing for patients and families, and provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary care to patients with and at risk for hereditary cancer syndromes. Her long-standing interest in the retinoblastoma, the first cancer discovered to have a genetic association, led to clinical and laboratory research collaborations at Lurie Children’s and the Stanley Manne Research Institute, and with national leaders in retinoblastoma and other cancers. Dr. Weinstein completed her pediatrics residency at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children and her pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship at Children’s Memorial Hospital.

Call 1.800.543.7362

Amy Diamond, LCSW, CCLS

Amy Diamond, LCSW, CCLS, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Child Life Specialist. She has more than 10 years of experience supporting pediatric patients and their families as they navigate the social and emotional challenges of coping with illness and complex medical issues. In the Cancer Predisposition Program, Amy strives to provide the highest quality of care through building long term relationships with patients and families. She assists families with their unique psychosocial needs and connects patients and families to the appropriate community resources. Amy holds a Master of Arts in Social Work from The University of Chicago and a Bachelor of Science in Applied Health Science in Human Development and Family Studies, with minors in Psychology and Sociology, from Indiana University.

Shelley Weiss McQuaid, MS, CGC

Shelly Weiss McQuaid, MS, CGC, is a board-certified genetic counselor. Shelly is a clinical instructor at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. She has specific interests in inherited forms of pediatric cancer, laboratory utilization management and advocacy. Shelly provides direct clinical care in the Cancer Predisposition Program through genetic counseling and coordination of genetic testing. Shelly received her MS in Genetic Counseling from Northwestern University (2009) and her BS in Brain, Behavior and Cognitive Sciences from the University of Michigan (2007). She is core faculty for the Northwestern Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling and is on the Board of Directors for the Norton and Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics.

Angelique Mercier, MS, CGC

Angelique Mercier, MS, CGC, is a board-certified genetic counselor. She provides genetic counseling for a wide variety of indications, with an interest and focus on pediatric oncology, connective tissue disorders, cystic fibrosis newborn screening, and general genetics. Her previous clinical genetic counseling experience includes adult oncology and carrier screening program coordination. Angelique received her MS in Genetic Counseling from Northwestern University in 2014, and her BS in Biology and Psychology with minors in Chemistry and Social Work from Valparaiso University in 2012. She is ancillary faculty for the Northwestern Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling and is active in the Illinois Society of Genetics Professionals.