Hello, my name is Ali Haidar, and I am the founder of Remission Detroit. I have always had a passion for cancer research and treatment, and in my experience working with cancer, I have found that financial stress is often found wherever cancer lies. I aimed to remedy this issue, hence the founding of the Remission Detroit. I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan, with aspirations of entering the medical field. I have worked in the Kitzman Lab at Michigan Medicine, which was my introduction to cancer research. If there are any questions on the organization or my research, feel free to contact me with the information below. Having grown up in Dearborn, Michigan, I have seen firsthand the unmatched community, culture, and drive that is found in Metro Detroit. I am confident that with hard work and dedication, together we can make a stronger, more equitable Detroit.

Email: alihaidr@umich.edu

Hello, my name is Martina Polath, and I am the Vice President for Remission Detroit. I am a third-year undergraduate student at the University of Michigan majoring in Neuroscience and Spanish. I work in a Speech Neurophysiology Lab with Michigan Medicine and conduct EEGs on children who stutter. I am from Sterling Heights, Michigan, and extremely passionate about surgery and cancer. I am interested in specializing in surgery after medical school relating to transplant or neurology. Please reach out to me with any questions or concerns!

Email:  mpolath@umich.edu

Hello, my name is Maximilian Schenke, and I am proud to be the Secretary for Remission Detroit. I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan, majoring in Neuroscience and German, with the hope of becoming a surgeon. I am deeply passionate about the medical field in general, and have a vested interest in cancer and its treatment. I’ve witnessed multiple relatives battle with its effects. Immigrating from Germany at the age of four, growing up in Bloomfield Hills has given me a firsthand understanding of the incredible revival Detroit is currently experiencing, spurred on by its remarkably driven community. Remission Detroit is committed to helping families in need win the battle against cancer, and making a healthier and stronger Detroit. Please feel free to reach out with any questions. 

Email: maxsch@umich.edu

Hi, my name is Nader Sharif, and I’m proud to be the Director of Administration of Remission Detroit. I firmly believe that no one should have to choose between medical treatment and financial stability. I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming a cancer diagnosis can be—not just physically and emotionally, but also financially. Through Remission Detroit, I’m committed to making a real difference in the lives of patients and families by removing financial barriers to care. I’m always happy to connect, whether it’s to discuss our mission, potential collaborations, or ways to get involved. Feel free to reach out!

Email: nade@umich.edu

Hello, my name is Hamza Alnaib, and I am honored to serve as the Treasurer for Remission Detroit. I oversee our financial planning, ensuring that our resources are effectively allocated to support cancer patients in need. My passion for healthcare and financial accessibility stems from witnessing the struggles that many families face in affording life-saving treatments. Coming from a background that values both community and service, I am deeply invested in Detroit’s ongoing revitalization and believe that no barriers should stand in the way of quality cancer care. At Remission Detroit, we are dedicated to bridging these gaps and empowering patients to focus on healing rather than financial burdens. Please don’t hesitate to reach out, I’d love to connect and discuss how we can make a difference together!

Email: halnaib@umich.edu