Turning Adversity into Advocacy: The Story of the Verniero Commission

Founded in 2018, the Verniero Commission is a volunteer-led effort dedicated to
Myeloproliferative Neoplasm (MPN) cancer awareness, patient advocacy, and community service.

Our Mission in MPN Awareness and Volunteer Advocacy

In 2018, a small group of volunteers formed the Verniero Commission to advocate for individuals who often lacked representation and voice. Our early work focused on raising awareness of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs), sharing reliable information, and supporting patients and families affected by rare blood cancers.

Over time, our mission evolved. While advocacy remains central to who we are, we expanded our work to include research-driven inquiry into health, prevention, and public policy. We now examine scientific literature, regulatory structures, and healthcare systems to better understand how disease develops and how individuals can make informed decisions before illness progresses.

Today, the Verniero Commission emphasizes prevention through knowledge. We explore evidence-based medical research alongside lifestyle, environmental, and holistic approaches that influence long-term health outcomes. Rather than limiting discussion to conventional treatment models alone, we evaluate a broader spectrum of strategies grounded in documented science and historical perspective.

We remain an independent volunteer commission and do not accept donations. Our purpose is to serve with integrity, pursue clarity through research, and amplify the voices of those navigating complex medical challenges while working toward informed, preventive solutions.

About Our Founder

Hon. Col. Samuel Verniero, Jr.

Sam has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, including an “offsetting” terminal illness.
The rare blood cancer is Polycythemia Vera, and the offsetting terminal illness consists
of arterial vascular malformations and aneurysms.

Despite these challenges, Sam has continued a life of public service and volunteer leadership. He has been
appointed by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp to two State boards: the

State of Georgia Rehabilitation Council

and the

Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia
.

In addition, he is a Kentucky Colonel, Arkansas Traveler, and Ambassador. He serves as a Deputy High
Commissioner for the United Nations World Humanity Commission for Asia & Africa, is a member of the
DeKalb County Community Service Board, and most recently has served as a Judge on the Selective Service
System District Appeal Board.

Although Col. Verniero is battling Polycythemia Vera, he thrives on service to the community. He continues
to volunteer on behalf of those who look to him as their voice—exemplifying the spirit of the
Verniero Commission.

Read Commendations

Portrait of Hon. Col. Samuel Verniero Jr., founder of the Verniero Commission, in front of the American flag.

2020 MPN Hero

Sam is recognized as a 2020 MPN Hero, a testament to the courage and determination required
to change hearts and minds about MPNs. Although several strokes have affected his body, his personality,
spirit, and commitment to advocacy remain strong.

Even while facing serious health challenges, he continues to speak up for patients, encourage additional
MPN research, and promote better understanding of rare blood cancers that impact patients and families
around the world.

Incyte Corporation
owns the Voices of MPN trademark.