Meet The Board

Having lived in and loved Fort McMurray for 18 years, I have become deeply invested in a community bond that took on a profound new meaning eight years ago. It was then that I joined the Support 4 Moms Society while navigating the world of medically complex disabilities with my daughter, who has CFC Syndrome.

​

At a time when I felt few others could truly understand our reality, Support 4 Moms provided the community and connection I had been searching for. Our path has since been shaped by the realities of medical parenting—including numerous surgeries and the frequent travel required for specialist care, but I no longer had to navigate those hurdles alone.

​

Because of this journey, giving back to the region that stood by us is my greatest passion. Now serving on the Board, I am dedicated to advocating for our families and ensuring that everyone in our community feels the same connection and empowerment that helped us find our way. ❤️

Support 4 Moms was there at the beginning of our journey. I started attending meetings in 2014, while we were awaiting diagnosis for my daughter. Over the years, this group has provided a wonderful community for my family. We’ve met amazing friends who have walked the journey of having a child with a disability with us- the struggles and the celebrations! I became the President of the Society in 2021 because I am passionate about what this group offers- a community and a safe space for parents where they can feel understood. Parenting is a difficult journey, and having people that can relate and understand your struggles is so valuable.

I joined support4moms almost from the beginning and it has been a wonderful group with amazing people.

I have two boys both with complex needs and this group has been a live saver to me in many ways. When u get a diagnosis for your child you have so many questions and feel so alone but having a group like this sure helps with all the fears and unknowns.

Since joining the group I have made many wonderful friendships and has help start an inclusive hockey, baseball program, I also help with volt hockey. All these programs give out kids a sense of belonging.

I was awarded citizen of the year in 2022 wood buffalo for my involvement with inclusion. This group is made up of moms the truly care about another moms and we want to be a source in our community to help other moms in their journey.

I have have been living in the Fort McMurray since 2009 and I am proud to call this community my home. I attended a Support4moms group meeting in 2016, shortly after my oldest daughter was showing signs of developmental delays. There, I discovered the value of having people to share experiences with, and the importance of connection - especially during those tough times. I also met a number of like-minded individuals who are passionate about building connections within the disability community; many who are close friends today. In 2018, I joined the board of directors as a member at large. I viewed this as an opportunity to combine my passion of volunteering with an organization that aligns with my families needs. It is rewarding to be a part of a team which focuses on creating safe spaces for support networks to organically evolve in our community.

I lived and worked with people with special needs long before I became a Mom. I feel grateful for my experiences but it does not prepare you in a lot of ways. The constant vulnerability to explain your child's needs and struggles all while trying figure out supports. When to worry. Is this okay? And then carve time to just simply spend time with your child and not focus on the therapies and strategies. The emotional process of being okay but not okay with medical trips and sometimes living through your very worst fears knowing that tomorrow we could be right back there. It's a lot! I became involved in the support 4 Moms project because they were there in the beginning for us. We met our best friends there that we probably wouldn't have met any other way. I am passionate about making a space for all families who consider their family a part of the special needs category to belong. Big or small struggles. Able passing or not- we have your back and often can relate in someway. I am so proud of my family and families like ours. We have some extra struggles at times but we also learn to celebrate so much.

I joined Support 4 Moms in 2020 after my second child was born, finding comfort and connection among other parents who understood my journey.

​

Navigating systems, services, and everyday life with children who have complex needs has given me a clear understanding of the challenges families face emotionally, logistically, and socially as well as the resilience and strength within our community. I am passionate about ensuring families feel supported, heard, and empowered. 

​

Serving on the board allows me to advocate not only for my own children, but for all families raising children with disabilities, with the goal of building accessible supports, fostering connection, and creating a community where every child and family can thrive.