Volunteer Spotlight: Alicia Busso

Volunteer Spotlight: Alicia Busso

My name is Alicia Busso and I'm the CCA for Missouri and the mother of 2 daughters, one of whom was born with congenital CMV. I am hosting “Strides 4 CMV Missouri” on June 25^th to raise funds for the National CMV Foundation. To learn more visit here.

Tell us about your professional/educational background.
I grew up in St. Louis, attending college and medical school in Kansas City, and trained in Louisville, Kentucky.  I returned to St. Louis in 2007 where I have been a practicing emergency room physician ever since. 

What makes the National CMV Foundation's mission powerful for you?
My oldest daughter, Carina, allowed me to be touched by the medical field in a different way when she was born in 2012 after a fairly uneventful pregnancy. She was diagnosed the day after her birth with microcephaly, and ultimately cCMV.  She has had a challenging path these last 10 years and I devote much time advocating for her in the medical and educational sectors.

What made you decide to get more involved with the National CMV Foundation, as a Community Alliance Chair?
I decided to involve myself with NCMVF due to my frustration that many people around me had never heard of CMV and that there was a seemingly indifferent attitude from the medical community.  I was hoping that awareness could lead to advocacy, and I wanted to join in.

In your role as CMV Community Alliance Chair, what goals have you set for 2022?
My goals as a CCA are to raise money for the NCMVF and awareness for CMV amongst the general public. I hope to be able to use my professional contacts to raise the spirit of the medical providers to fight for the families of CMV children and encourage awareness. 

You're happiest when?
In my spare time, I read, attend theatre productions, visit with friends, and enjoy the company of my two daughters, Carina and Gwen, husband Brian and two Weimaraner’s: Meadow and Marci.  Travel is a huge love of mine put on hold by the pandemic and I have started running again (which is harder than it was pre-children) and hope to someday run for CMV.  I am happiest when I am surrounded with sunshine, water, laugher, friends, and a cold beverage!
 
You can support Alicia’s efforts by visiting her Strides 4 CMV race page here.