Chuck F. Birchall

JumpStart, Inc. is a non profit organization that supports entrepreneurial service organizations. The firm advises, invests in, assists and accelerates Northeast Ohio's early-stage ideas and companies. The company was founded in 2004 and is headquartered in Cleveland, OH.

AxioMed Spine Corp. was formed in 2001 to develop products with a goal of restoring spinal function to patients with degenerative spine disease; thus advancing the standard of care beyond fusion and first generation artificial discs. Since its inception, AxioMed has secured over $34M in private equity financing from prestigious venture capitalists. The company´s Freedom Lumbar Disc has been developed and clinical trials initiated. The company is headed by CEO, Patrick McBrayer, who joined AxioMed in early 2006. Mr. McBrayer along with founder and COO, James Kuras, lead an experienced management and development team with significant history and expertise in spinal implants, including early artificial disc development efforts. Company employment includes professionals with extensive spine and engineering experience. The team is augmented by a Medical Advisory Panel of surgeons from leading spine centers and universities. The company´s headquarters include product development and testing, clinical and regulatory affairs, and manufacturing. AxioMed will leverage its background in lumbar disc replacement with an ongoing development project for the cervical spine.