Executive Director

Shortly after completing her PhD in Communication Studies, Nikki Porter began working in the epilepsy not-for-profit sector. Nikki had a dual role at Epilepsy Support Centre as Public Education Coordinator for Windsor, Ontario and Communications Liaison for Southwestern Ontario. As Public Education Coordinator, Nikki fostered a community of individuals and families living with epilepsy while building partnerships with local neurologists, like-minded community organizations, and other stakeholders. Her work as Communications Liaison included integrating educational material into the agency’s Purple Day for Epilepsy activities, rebranding the agency, and involvement in regional, provincial, and national campaigns.

Prior to moving to Ottawa, Nikki worked for Epilepsy Ontario as Project Manager on the Ontario Trillium Foundation-funded project From Isolation to Inclusion, which was tasked with building the capacity of community epilepsy agencies across the province. She was also an editor of Epilepsy Ontario’s blog in The Huffington Post Canada and wrote the July 2014 column Let’s Shift Our Language When Talking About Epilepsy.

Although Nikki did not have a personal connection to epilepsy prior to working at Epilepsy Support Centre, her experiences at epilepsy organizations have made this personal. She is committed to supporting individuals and families living with epilepsy and working to break down barriers that inhibit their full participation in our communities.

Case Manager, Client Services

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.

Epilepsy Educator

Sandi Reggler graduated from the University of Ottawa with a Bachelor of Arts, Concentration in Music and German. After running her home-based daycare for 17 years, she decided it was time for a career change. Sandi and her family began as Epilepsy Ottawa clients seeking support after her daughter was diagnosed with epilepsy in October 2018. Sandi, her husband and their three children became further involved in the agency, attending community events and volunteering at the Ottawa Fire Truck Pull.

Drawing from her personal experiences and the knowledge she has gained over the years, Sandi is determined to continue educating others and raising awareness about epilepsy. Sandi knows firsthand the challenges of advocating for a child with epilepsy within the educational system, and she firmly believes that education and advocacy are crucial in creating a supportive environment for individuals living with this condition. Her passion and dedication drive her to bridge gaps, eliminate stigmas, and ensure that no one feels alone on their epilepsy journey.