Peggy Lillis Foundation Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Peggy Lillis Foundation (PLF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections through public education, advocacy, and policy influence. Established in 2010 in memory of Margaret "Peggy" Lillis, a Brooklyn kindergarten teacher who succumbed to a C. diff infection, the foundation aims to raise awareness and improve patient safety regarding this preventable yet often deadly infection.

Mission and Vision

PLF envisions a world where C. diff infections are rare, treatable, and survivable. Its mission is to build a nationwide C. diff awareness movement by educating the public, empowering advocates, and shaping policy.

Industry Significance

C. diff is a leading cause of healthcare-associated infections, resulting in nearly 500,000 infections and 29,000 deaths annually in the United States. Despite its prevalence, public awareness remains low, with less than 40% of Americans familiar with the term "C. diff." PLF plays a crucial role in bridging this awareness gap, thereby enhancing infection prevention and patient outcomes.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Public Education: Raise awareness about C. diff infections, their risks, and preventive measures.

• Advocacy: Empower individuals affected by C. diff to engage in policy discussions and legislative actions.

• Policy Influence: Shape healthcare policies to improve infection control practices and patient safety.

Areas of Specialization

• Infection Prevention: Educating healthcare providers and the public on best practices to prevent C. diff transmission.

• Patient Support: Offering resources and support networks for individuals affected by C. diff.

• Legislative Advocacy: Engaging in policy advocacy to enhance funding for research and improve infection reporting standards.

Key Technologies Utilized

PLF leverages digital platforms for awareness campaigns, utilizing social media, webinars, and online resources to disseminate information and engage with a broader audience.

Primary Markets and Conditions Targeted

• Healthcare Providers: Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities to implement effective infection control measures.

• General Public: Individuals seeking information on C. diff prevention and treatment.

• Policymakers: Legislators and health agencies to advocate for improved infection reporting and research funding.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, PLF relies on donations, grants, and fundraising events to support its initiatives. In 2023, the foundation reported revenues of $416,000 and expenses of $396,000, with total assets amounting to $38,100.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details regarding recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed. However, PLF has consistently engaged in fundraising activities, including annual galas and awareness campaigns, to support its mission.

Notable Investors

As a nonprofit entity, PLF does not have investors in the traditional sense. Instead, it is supported by individual donors, corporate sponsors, and philanthropic organizations committed to public health and infection prevention.

Utilization of Capital

Funds are allocated towards public education campaigns, development of educational materials, support programs for individuals affected by C. diff, and advocacy efforts aimed at influencing healthcare policies.

Pipeline Development

As a nonprofit organization focused on public health education and advocacy, PLF does not have a product development pipeline in the traditional sense. Instead, it continually develops and updates educational resources, support programs, and advocacy initiatives to address the evolving needs of the C. diff community.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

PLF utilizes a comprehensive digital platform to disseminate information, including a user-friendly website, social media channels, and online support networks. These platforms are designed to provide accurate, up-to-date information on C. diff prevention, treatment, and patient support.

Significant Scientific Methods

While PLF does not conduct original scientific research, it collaborates with healthcare professionals and researchers to ensure that its educational materials are based on the latest scientific evidence and best practices in infection control.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Currently, PLF does not employ AI-driven technologies in its operations. However, it remains open to integrating innovative technologies that can enhance its educational outreach and advocacy efforts.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Christian John Lillis, Executive Director: Co-founder and CEO, Christian has over 25 years of experience in fundraising, advocacy, and nonprofit management. He has led national convenings of C. diff advocates, coordinated the first-ever C. diff Lobby Day on Capitol Hill, and produced the first public service announcement on C. diff infections.

• Liam Lillis, Co-founder: Co-founder and President Emeritus, Liam is a plumber at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn and a member of Plumbers Local 1. He has been actively involved in PLF's public service announcements, annual galas, and presentations to various audiences, including Merck’s Chief Patient Officer Rounds.

Board of Directors

• Gerard Honig, PhD, President: A research professional focused on improving health through technology, Gerard has worked in inflammation, immunology, and gastroenterology since 2010. He has been involved with PLF since 2015 and volunteers on numerous additional boards and committees.

• Alicia Skovera, Treasurer: Executive Director of the American Camp Association, NY and NJ, Alicia has over 30 years of experience working with at-risk youth and has been recognized for her leadership in camping.

• Helen Beigel, RN: Peggy's sister, Helen has 25 years of experience as a registered nurse and retired as Assistant Director of Nursing for Northwell Health.

• Victoria Amari: Director of Global Oncology Product Communications at Daiichi Sankyo, Victoria has over 20 years of healthcare public relations, advocacy, and marketing experience.

• Bruce Hirsch, MD: A graduate of Cornell University Medical College, Dr. Hirsch's infectious disease practice focuses on optimizing the complete health of a person, including the impact of infections like C. diff.

• Kenneth Lawrence, BS, PharmD: Former Executive Director in Medical Affairs at Seres Therapeutics, Kenneth has dedicated over a decade to expanding the pipeline of antimicrobial drugs for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

• Deborah Trinker, JD: With over 26 years of experience in legal and regulatory affairs for FDA-regulated products, Deborah has served as Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at Rexall Sundown, Inc., and at Kemin Health, L.C.

• Maryann Webb: A C. diff survivor, Maryann has over 30 years in executive management positions responsible for regulatory affairs interacting with FDA and comparable international health agencies for dietary and nutritional supplements.

• Vincent B. Young, MD, PhD: A graduate of MIT and Stanford University, Dr. Young's research focuses on the role of indigenous microbiota in influencing the health status of their host, particularly in relation to healthcare-associated pathogens like C. diff.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no significant changes or appointments within the company's leadership.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The nonprofit sector addressing healthcare-associated infections is diverse, with several organizations focusing on infection prevention, patient safety, and public health education. The market is characterized by a growing emphasis on patient advocacy, policy influence, and public education to combat healthcare-associated infections.

Competitor Analysis

• Clostridium difficile Foundation: Focuses on providing information and support for individuals affected by C. diff infections.

• Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA): A professional association that provides resources and guidelines on infectious diseases, including C. diff.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): A federal agency that offers comprehensive information and guidelines on infection prevention and control.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

PLF collaborates with various organizations, including the CDC, to enhance its educational outreach and advocacy efforts. These partnerships enable PLF to extend its reach and effectiveness in combating C. diff infections through joint campaigns, resource sharing, and unified policy advocacy.