Linda Surprenant

As a parent of a 31-year-old young lady who has complex health care needs, and a registered nurse, Linda has extensive experience and knowledge about individuals with complex care needs, the education/healthcare systems including navigation strategies to assist in advocating for children and adults. She is an advocate, a trainer, and an active community member in the disability and health care world. As a result of her daughter’s health and disability needs, she developed passion in the areas of special education for students with special health care needs, healthcare transition (pediatric to the adult to healthcare systems) and as well as disability advocacy. Linda is a member of the Dept. Of Developmental Services Statewide Family Support Council and the Holyoke/Chicopee DDS Citizen’s Complaint Resolution Team. An additional goal she has is to inform and empower other and support other parents who were facing similar challenges and struggles, as well as the professionals who support these families.