The Ultimate Hike Leadership Council (UHLC) is a dedicated group of experienced hikers, coaches, and community leaders committed to expanding the impact of CureSearch Ultimate Hike. UHLC members inspire, support, and mentor new hikers across the country, fostering a passionate community united in the mission to end childhood cancer. Whether organizing local events, sharing expert hiking tips, or providing encouragement, the UHLC is at the heart of every step we take toward a future without childhood cancer. Join Ultimate Hike and be part of this transformative journey!
Jeff Busby
Jeff Busby first became involved with CureSearch Ultimate Hike in 2012 after his son's diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. His son's successful treatment protocol was, in part, shaped by the work of CureSearch. Since then, Jeff has been an Ultimate Hiker, volunteer, and coach. To date, he has participated in Ultimate Hikes in his home state of South Carolina on the Foothills Trail, as well as in Minnesota, West Virginia, and Indiana. He and his wife, Shannon, have three children. His son has volunteered for the Foothills Ultimate Hike, and his youngest daughter is a Foothills Spring Ultimate Hike alumna. Jeff is an avid outdoorsman, a scouting leader, and a former U.S. Army non-commissioned officer. He is grateful to be part of the Ultimate Hike community.
Jennie Astill
Jennie Astill participated in her first Ultimate Hike in 2014 after serving on the Salt Lake CureSearch Walk committee since 2011. She was thrilled to find an opportunity that combined her love of hiking with her passion for raising funds to support children’s cancer research. Jennie has since organized five volunteer-led hikes in Utah, bringing together friends, family, and even strangers to explore the trails of Mt. Timpanogos, Mt. Nebo, and Red Pine Trail. These hikes have become meaningful gatherings where participants unite in the spirit of adventure and hope, all while supporting a cause close to Jennie’s heart. Jennie’s daughter, Izzy, was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor in November 2010, and this year, she celebrated 13 years cancer-free—a milestone that drives Jennie’s commitment to CureSearch and the Ultimate Hike. Jennie is grateful for the chance to give back, inspire others, and continue her journey with CureSearch as both an advocate and hiker.
Frank Breitman
Frank Breitman has been a dedicated supporter of CureSearch for many years. As a committed hiker in the Shenandoah Valley Ultimate Hike, Frank combines his passion for the outdoors with his dedication to finding a cure for pediatric cancer. In addition to his hiking efforts, he plays a vital role on the Philadelphia Community Leadership Board, where he helps lead initiatives, organize local fundraisers, and spread awareness to further CureSearch's mission. Frank’s work with the UHLC allows him to inspire others to join the fight against childhood cancer and support families impacted by this disease.
Scott Krein
Scott Krein has been involved with CureSearch since the creation of Ultimate Hike fundraising in 2011. Since its inception, he has helped develop hiker safety protocols, accountability measures, medical response strategies, and streamlined radio communications. Over the years, Scott has volunteered at many locations and enjoys helping to establish new hike routes. With over 30 years of experience in the medical and emergency services field, he currently serves as the Oconee County Emergency Services Director. Scott enjoys using his skills to help hikers achieve their goals on hike day. When not working with CureSearch or OCES, Scott is up for any outdoor adventure. He is married to Tracy, and they enjoy snow skiing, scuba diving, hiking, and lake time with friends and family.
Doug MacKenzie
Doug MacKenzie enters 2025 for his seventh season as the Los Angeles-based Ultimate Hike coach. Doug is deeply passionate about CureSearch and finds it to be an incredible organization that unites people for a truly worthwhile cause—ending childhood cancer. Through his work with CureSearch Ultimate Hike, Doug has witnessed the creation of lifelong friendships, the building of a supportive community, and the transformative impact that hiking can have on participants. He loves sharing his passion for the outdoors with others and inspiring them to challenge themselves for a cause that matters. This season, Doug is especially looking forward to introducing hikers to our newest event location, Mt. Tamalpais in the Bay Area, a stunning venue that promises both challenge and breathtaking views. Doug’s dedication to CureSearch Ultimate Hike continues to grow each year, and he is honored to lead and support hikers in achieving their goals, both on and off the trail.
Amy McKelvey
Amy McKelvey was introduced to CureSearch in 2008 when her daughter, Emily, was undergoing treatment for acute myeloid leukemia. At that time, Emily’s classmates formed a team and participated in the local CureSearch Milestones Walk to support Emily and raise money for childhood cancer research. Just a few short months later, Emily lost her battle; she was 17. While her family continued to support CureSearch, Amy learned of the CureSearch Ultimate Hike and completed her first hike in the spring of 2012. Since then, she has participated in over 20 hikes as a hiker or volunteer. While she calls the Foothills Hike her “home” hike, she has also participated in several others across the country. Amy lives outside of Charlotte, NC, with her husband, Mark, three pups, and several chickens and ducks. Her son, Brendan, joined her on the Foothills Hike in the spring of 2019. Amy is passionate about the hike program and enjoys sharing Emily’s story with those she meets along the way.
Susan Pregon
Susan Pregon says, "This is my 10th year working with CureSearch and being involved with the Ultimate Hike program. I have been the St. Louis coach for five years—though I’m not even sure…it’s all been one big blur of fabulous team effort! The great thing about the STL team is the collaboration within this core group. We work together on it all, and together, we make great things happen. I am so energized by the rest of the team. It's such a pleasure to tackle all things CureSearch with them. Outside of CureSearch, I love to be involved, period. I sing in both my church choir and a contemporary band. My daughter is in the band as well, and it fills me with great joy to sing with her. I have a three-year-old Golden Retriever named Tucker, a certified therapy dog. We go to nursing homes and hospitals with the goal of sharing love. It’s quite fulfilling—I love seeing the expressions on everyone’s face as they pet Tucker. As I step down from the role of coach, I will continue as an ambassador to the STL team, assisting wherever they need me. I’ll keep organizing my biggest fundraising events and continue to hike, at a slower pace. 
Being a part of the Leadership Council will help me stay connected to the incredible CureSearch Ultimate Hike, and I look forward to contributing in this role."
