Dominique lives in the Bay Area of California with her husband Tony, their toddler son Rowan, and their dog Remi. Rowan was diagnosed with Dravet syndrome at six months old and has a de novo SCN1A gene mutation. This revelation turned their world upside down, ushering in an unprecedented wave of fear as the family learned more about the condition. Yet through the trial and error of each seizure, they gradually built knowledge, resilience, and confidence.
A pivotal moment came when Dominique attended her first DSF Caregiver Connect group. On a video call with a handful of strangers, she shared openly and felt truly validated and supported for the first time. This experience created a profound sense of safety and community, inspiring her to join the movement. She is deeply motivated to pay it forward, upholding and helping others in the same way experienced Dravet parents stood by her family when medical teams fell short in providing education and resources. Knowing how impactful that support was, her heart finds joy in lifting up fellow caregivers.
Professionally, Dominique has historical experience as an early childhood educator, along with prior roles as a quality assurance supervisor in the mental health field. These past skills have proven invaluable in supporting Rowan full time, a role she now embraces after stepping away from her career to focus on his care.
As a relatively newly diagnosed family, Dominique is still navigating the early stages of Dravet syndrome and looks forward to rediscovering personal hobbies that bring her joy. She enjoys yoga, hiking, pickleball, ultimate frisbee, and recreational softball.
Dominique has completed two years as a Brand Ambassador for the Dravet Syndrome Foundation and is eager to become even more involved. Through the trenches of caring for a loved one with medical complexity, she has learned the vital importance of holding onto humor and optimism—no matter how dark things may seem in the moment.