Specialties & ConditionsCancer Predisposition Program 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.
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.
Anita Murad, LCSW, is a social worker within the Cancer Predisposition Clinic and the Epilepsy Genetics Clinic. Anita has worked at Lurie Children’s Hospital since 2013, previously embedded within the psychiatry division. Anita has experience working to provide individual and family support to families of diverse backgrounds, connecting patients and families to resources within the Lurie Children’s community, as well as to their local community. In the Cancer Predisposition Program, Anita works to utilize these same tools to assist families with their unique psychosocial needs, and builds long term relationships with patients and families to provide the highest quality care and support. Anita received her Masters of Social Work at Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago. In addition to time spent at Lurie Children's Hospital, Anita trained at Resurrection Behavioral Health, the Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center, and gained experience in research at the College of Nursing at UIC.
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.
