Program Manager

jamie@epilepsyottawa.ca

In 2019, Jamie completed her Bachelor of Social Work from Carleton University. After working as a placement and summer student with Epilepsy Ottawa throughout the latter half of her degree, Jamie was brought on full time. She now works primarily in adult services managing Clinic to Community, UPLIFT, Epilepsy Connect Ottawa, and general client support needs.

Jamie’s passion for helping those with chronic illnesses stems from experience of her own. The drive to assist and educate those who are in need are the primary reasons she feels so at home at Epilepsy Ottawa. She hopes to see the agency grow in the coming years with sights set on expanding outreach and programming.

Family and School Liaison

sandi@epilepsyottawa.ca

Sandi’s journey with Epilepsy Ottawa began in 2018 when her daughter was diagnosed with epilepsy. As a client, she accessed valuable services like the Seizure Smart presentation for her daughter's classes. Inspired by her experiences, she volunteered with the agency, which fueled her passion for helping others facing similar challenges. Eventually, Sandi made the bold decision to close her long-running home daycare and focus her career on supporting families navigating epilepsy. Her personal experiences equip her with unique insights, allowing her to educate and empower others on how to best support individuals living with epilepsy.

Social Work Placement Student

support@epilepsyottawa.ca

Laura is a fourth-year placement student in Carleton University’s Bachelor of Social Work program and is expected to graduate in December 2025. She previously earned a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology, with a minor in Neuroscience and Mental Health. Laura has direct frontline experience working with people of all ages across various areas, including mental health, gender-based violence, poverty and housing, food insecurity, and education.

Laura is passionate about creating resources and providing services that help improve the quality of life for the people she works with. She also works to offer meaningful and accessible support for individuals who face barriers to getting the services they need.  She is eager to learn more about how to provide personalized support for each person living with epilepsy and those who care for them. 

Public Relations Placement Student

community@epilepsyottawa.ca

Viergine is currently completing her Public Relations program at Algonquin College, having completed all of her academic courses and now beginning her internship. She also holds a Bachelor degree in social communication.

Originally from Haiti, Viergine previously founded and managed an organization that supported at-risk children and people with disabilities. She is passionate about community work and believes that creative and inclusive activities can serve as a form of therapy, especially for those living with chronic illnesses or dealing with stress-related challenges.

As an intern at Epilepsy Ottawa, Viergine is excited to bring her skills and energy to the team. She hopes to support the agency's mission and help expand its reach so that more people affected by epilepsy can benefit from its services.

Seizure Smart Educator, Volunteer

Sofia is in her final year of the Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Ottawa. Diagnosed with epilepsy as a child, she is passionate about raising awareness and helping others navigate similar situations. She volunteers with Epilepsy Ottawa, delivering Smart Seizure presentations to local schools and daycares, equipping educators and children with essential knowledge about epilepsy and seizure first aid.

With over five years of experience working with children, she uses engaging and accessible teaching methods to make topics understandable. Her experience as a certified first aid instructor enhances her ability to teach others about this condition. She aspires to pursue a career in healthcare, where she can continue to promote awareness, support individuals with epilepsy, and contribute to a more inclusive and informed community.