Jaymie-Lynn Robertson's Story
By: Belinda McIsaac (Jaymie-Lynn’s Mother)
It was a shock for our family when our ray of sunshine, Jaymie-Lynn, was diagnosed with epilepsy in September 2009. The diagnosis came after she experienced a tonic-clonic seizure while living in Brooks, Alberta. Little did we know at that time the journey we were about to embark on.
Jaymie-Lynn was an amazing child who loved swimming, lifeguarding, dancing, music, socializing, and movies. She was an avid animal lover and pursued this passion by studying the veterinary assistant program. Jaymie-Lynn was known as “Miss Hollywood” because she loved having her photo taken. Despite her epilepsy diagnosis, she never allowed it to slow her down or stop her from living life on her own terms. While there were challenges such as loss of freedom, discrimination at work, and ongoing doctor’s appointments, she still managed to enjoy swimming, snowboarding, and other activities.
Prior to Jaymie-Lynn’s passing, we had not heard of SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy). Unfortunately, she passed away on October 5, 2011, at the young age of 23, due to SUDEP. Her death was devastating for her family, friends, and extended community networks. Jaymie-Lynn had always wanted to be an advocate for people living with epilepsy, and her death has left a legacy of support, awareness, and advocacy.
Jaymie-Lynn lived by the motto “be the change you want to see in the world,” and her death has become a catalyst for her community to be that change. She started this legacy with four simple words: “raise $ for epilepsy.” As her family and friends, we intend to honor her words and continue her legacy.
Jaymie-Lynn Robertson Memorial Bursary Program
The Jamie-Lynn Memorial Fund is committed to supporting the education and well-being of individuals and families affected by epilepsy, and as such, has established a bursary program to provide financial support to students pursuing their education while coping with the challenges of epilepsy. The bursary program is open to students with epilepsy, as well as those who have been affected by the condition, whether through a family member or friend.
Through this program, the Jamie-Lynn Memorial Fund aims to reduce the financial burden on students and families affected by epilepsy, allowing them to focus on their studies and achieve their academic goals. By providing financial support, the bursary program aims to empower and encourage students to pursue their passions and make a difference in their communities, just as Jamie Lynn did during her life.
Students who are enrolled in any field of post-secondary education are welcome to apply for the bursary program. By providing support to these students, the Jamie-Lynn Memorial Fund hopes to inspire the next generation of advocates and leaders in the fight against epilepsy.
CLICK BELOW TO VIEW THE 2024 BURSARY RECIPIENTS