Jim Gerencser

Jim Gerencser is a visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the driving force behind a movement to transform the cancer journey through patient-centered innovation. As the founder of the Cancer Playbook powered by Whole Health Oncology Institute (WHOI), Jim has reimagined what support, strategy, and science can look like for individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis. His work blends compassion with cutting-edge research, giving rise to a platform where patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are not just collected—they are activated to empower others.

At the heart of Cancer Playbook is a simple but revolutionary idea: real stories and data from real patients can guide better outcomes. Jim leads a dynamic team dedicated to building comprehensive, interactive playbooks for cancer patients, integrating scientific literature, longitudinal surveys, and lived experience into actionable, personalized support. This isn’t just a tool—it’s a lifeline, a mentor, and a companion for thousands seeking clarity, control, and community during one of life’s most challenging chapters.

Jim’s journey into cancer advocacy began in 2012 after his son Eric’s diagnosis. In response, he co-founded Early Recognition Is Critical (E.R.I.C.), a global nonprofit committed to life-saving education and early detection strategies. E.R.I.C. now operates in the United States, Uganda, Venezuela, Colombia, and Kenya, with initiatives that include breast self-exam training, athletic engagement campaigns, and survivor empowerment programs.

Before his immersion into health and advocacy, Jim built a legacy in the automotive industry. He founded Nationwide Overspray in 1982 and later launched Nationwide Auto Services, Inc. (NAS) in 2004. Under his leadership, NAS has grown into one of the country’s most respected OEM, VPC, and OES service providers, known for innovation, precision, and national reach.

Today, Jim’s true legacy is being shaped through his relentless pursuit of a more humane, data-informed, and patient-led approach to cancer care. Through the Cancer Playbook and WHOI, he continues to challenge the status quo—fostering a future where every cancer patient has access to tailored insights, shared wisdom, and the tools to fight smarter, not harder.