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Richard Lam, FNP, is a dedicated family nurse practitioner serving the Longwood, Florida, community at One World Pediatrics. With a strong foundation in nursing and a commitment to promoting health and wellness, Richard brings a wealth of experience and compassion to his practice.

Having earned his master's degree from ECPI University in Virginia Beach, Richard's journey in healthcare began as a registered nurse in the major hospitals of Central Florida. Over ten years, he garnered invaluable experience in acute care settings, specializing in the treatment of burns, trauma, and emergency care for patients of all ages, including pediatrics.

Richard's passion for preventive medicine and promoting healthy lifestyles led him to pursue further education as a family nurse practitioner. Equipped with his advanced training and expertise, he is dedicated to empowering patients and families to take proactive steps toward optimal health.

With a particular interest in child development, Richard is deeply committed to providing comprehensive care to pediatric patients, ensuring that each child receives the attention and support they need to thrive.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Richard cherishes the time spent creating lasting memories with his family and friends. His warm and caring nature, coupled with his dedication to preventive healthcare, makes him a valued member of the Longwood Pediatrics team.

Welcome to Balance Boost Wellness Clinic, where we aim to provide holistic, personalized healthcare. My name is Austin Parsons, FNP-BC, and I am honored to serve as your dedicated healthcare provider. With more than 10 years of experience in primary care, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity management, and mental health, my passion lies in empowering individuals to take control of their health and achieve optimal wellness.

I began my journey in healthcare by earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Rockhurst University and then a Master's Degree in Nursing as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Specialization in Family Medicine from Nova Southeastern University. Over the years, I have worked with diverse populations, addressed complex health concerns, and fostered long-term wellness through a whole-person approach.

At the heart of my practice is the belief that proper health extends beyond the absence of disease. I take the time to understand each patient's unique story, lifestyle, and goals, collaborating with them to create individualized care plans. My approach combines evidence-based medicine with innovative strategies that support physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Outside the clinic, I am dedicated to staying at the forefront of medical advancements, regularly attending professional development courses, seminars, and National Congress meetings. In my free time, my first passion is my faith, followed by my family. I enjoy all outdoor activities in my free time, especially those on the water. I'm also passionate about cooking healthy meals and self-care, which aligns with my commitment to a balanced and vibrant life.

Thank you for trusting me with your health journey. I look forward to working together to help you thrive.

Dr. Kennessa Hugger is a physician serving patients across FSCDR’s North Florida locations, including Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Pensacola, and Panama City. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals living with sickle cell disease, with a focus on improving health outcomes through education, prevention, and comprehensive treatment support. Dr. Hugger is committed to ensuring patients throughout North Florida have access to quality care and resources close to home.

Dr. Ronoel Penalver is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician serving patients at FSCDR’s Hollywood, Florida location. He provides comprehensive care focused on prevention, chronic disease management, and improving long-term health outcomes for individuals living with sickle cell disease.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Penalver contributes to clinical research efforts that support the advancement of treatment options and patient care. He is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care while helping expand access to innovative therapies and medical resources for the communities FSCDR serves.

About Us

The Foundation for Sickle Cell Disease Research (FSCDR) is a renowned organization solely focused on medical care and clinical research opportunities for those living with Sickle Cell Disease. FSCDR has locations across the State of Florida. Its Flagship is in Hollywood, Florida.

As the only organization in the United States with standalone sickle cell Centers of Excellence, The Foundation for Sickle Cell Disease Research welcomes patients from all over the world. The team of physicians, specialists, care coordinators, case managers, and social work professionals combine to provide all-inclusive care for children and adults with sickle cell disease.

Their stated mission is to tirelessly research, inform, hear, respect, treat, and support all individuals with sickle cell disease, and to make the disease a livable, non-threatening condition. In addition, they do innovative diagnostic testing, such as transcranial Doppler ultrasounds, X-rays, and medical treatments, including infusion services.

The team at The Foundation for Sickle Cell Disease Research works with other medical and education professionals to ensure that their patients of all ages receive the care and support they need to thrive, ranging from vaccinations to medication management and social work services.

Along with school individualized educational plan (IEP) support, disability application assistance, and case management, they help patients work through the social determinants of health to ensure patients receive the proper support they need.

To schedule an appointment with The Foundation for Sickle Cell Disease Research, call or book online today.

Gershwin Blyden, MD, PhD, FCP, FACP, is a board-certified hematologist-oncologist and medical director of The Foundation for Sickle Cell Disease Research, with locations in Homestead, Orlando, Lakeland, Jacksonville, Belle Glade, Tallahassee, and Hollywood, Florida. With more than 40 years of diverse experience, Dr. Blyden is an esteemed physician in his field.

After receiving his bachelor’s degree in plant science from the Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) in Tuskegee, Alabama, in 1967, Dr. Blyden earned a PhD in pharmacology from prestigious Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1976. Just three years later, he also earned his medical doctorate cum laude from Yale University.

In 1985, Dr. Blyden completed an internal medicine internship at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. That same year, he also finished his hematology/oncology and clinical pharmacology fellowship at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts. 

After graduating and completing his training, Dr. Blyden worked as an adjunct professor for the Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine in Miami Shores, Florida, an associate clinical professor of hematology and oncology at the University of Miami School of Medicine in Miami, Florida, and as an associate professor of clinical pharmacy and director of the Clinical Pharmacology Research Unit at Florida A&M University’s Miami location.

Today, Dr. Blyden is a leader in the field of sickle cell treatment, case management, and research. He provides comprehensive care for chronic diseases, with a special emphasis on sickle cell anemia. 

Dr. Blyden offers a variety of infusion services, school individualized education program (IEP) support, transcranial Doppler ultrasounds, and more.

Ashley Perenich is a highly skilled Physician Assistant at the Spine Institute of Florida, where she works closely with Dr. Nicholas Perenich and the rest of the surgical team to provide exceptional care to patients. Ashley earned her Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine and has since specialized in orthopedics and spine surgery.

As a Physician Assistant, Ashley is responsible for performing physical exams, diagnosing and treating injuries and illnesses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and assisting in surgical procedures. She is passionate about helping patients understand their condition and treatment options, and works closely with them to develop personalized treatment plans that meet their unique needs.

Ashley is a member of several professional organizations, including the Florida Academy of Physician Assistants and the American Academy of Physician Assistants. She is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest advancements in her field through continuing education and attending conferences and seminars.

In her free time, Ashley enjoys traveling, yoga, wakesurfing, and spending time with her husband, Dr. Nicholas Perenich, and their family.