Austin Watson

As the Family Network Coordinator, Austin oversees the Family Ambassador and Brand Ambassador Programs, acts as a moderator for online support groups, organizes gatherings both digital and live, acts as liaison between families and DSF, and other duties to further the mission of DSF. Originally from Northwest Washington, Austin lives in Boise, Idaho with her husband Stewart, son Owen, daughter Dylan, and dog Jax. In 2014, at 13 months old, Owen was diagnosed with Dravet syndrome. As a family they love camping in their motorhome, playing games, going on adventures around town, and traveling. Austin has been involved with DSF for nearly a decade in various ways. Starting as a participant in the online support groups. Then, as a family they have raised funds for DSF by hosting Goin’ For Owen: 5K for Dravet, co-chairing of Raising Hope Boise, and participating in other DSF virtual fundraisers like Dye it for Dravet and Give Up Your Cup. In 2021, she held her first official role as a Parent Ambassador. Prior to becoming a full-time caregiver for her son, Austin was an elementary school teacher specializing in language development. Austin is also a belly dancer, writer, backpacker, adventurer, traveler, and perpetual learner. Moreover, she is incredibly grateful to be a part of the DSF family.

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Stronger Together: Welcome Our 13 Family Network Ambassadors

For several years, one of DSF’s programs has been our Family Network Ambassador (FNA) Program. This program is made up of veteran Dravet parents who come together to support our foundational mission: To aggressively raise funds for Dravet syndrome and related epilepsies; to support and fund research; increase awareness; and to provide support to affected […]

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Brenda Ferrell

Brenda Ferrell is mom to 32-year-old Brian, who lives in an apartment with 24/7 caregivers. In her former life, Brenda taught college French and graduate classes in teaching English as a 2nd language. She retired in 2000 to be a full time mom. She taught French at Brian’s primary school and became involved in Boy

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Allen Golec

Allen, originally from the Chicago area, resided in six different states for over 25 years before settling in Central Florida with his two daughters. His involvement in Dravet Syndrome advocacy began when his younger daughter, Abigaile, experienced her first seizure at five months old. The family spent years pursuing an accurate diagnosis, ultimately identifying Dravet

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