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Our Story

Our Purpose

Empowering Lives For Nearly 80 Years

The Epilepsy Association of Western New York, Inc. (EAWNY) is a nonprofit organization offering professional services to individuals with Epilepsy and/or seizure disorders, their families and significant others.

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Our Mission

What guides us forward

The mission of the Epilepsy Association of WNY, Inc. (EAWNY) is to assist individuals and their families in coping with and adjusting to Epilepsy and/or seizure disorders to enable them to lead more independent, productive and satisfying lives.

1 in 26

People will be diagnosed with epilepsy at some point in their lives

200,000+

People are impacted by epilepsy in New York State

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Our History

From small beginnings to regional impact

1975

Foundation Laid

The Epilepsy Association of Western New York is founded, beginning its mission to provide support, education, and advocacy for those living with epilepsy.

1995

Expanding Community Outreach

The Association launches its first community awareness campaign, reaching thousands across the region and breaking down stigma around epilepsy.

2005

Establishing Support Services

The Association introduces its family support services program, offering counseling, parent training, and educational resources for families affected by epilepsy.

2015

Forming Partnerships

A key partnership is formed with local medical institutions, allowing the Association to broaden its educational offerings and improve access to medical resources for those living with epilepsy.

Today

Looking Ahead

Today, the Epilepsy Association continues to grow, adapting to the needs of the community with innovative programs and a renewed focus on accessibility, advocacy, and research.

Our Team

Dedicated professionals committed to serving Western New York.

Jeffrey A. Irwin, MS

Executive Director

Cheryl Best, LCSWR-ACSW

Clinical Social Worker

Allie Roesch

Support Counselor and Community Advocate

Renay Moran, M. Ed.

Information Services Coordinator

Lynn Carapellatti, BS

Family Support Services

Nancy Brown

Administrative Assistant

Jeffrey A. Irwin, MS

Executive Director

Jeffrey Irwin has served as Executive Director of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York (EAWNY) since 2013, leading the organization’s efforts to empower, educate, advocate for, and support individuals and families affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders throughout Western New York. He oversees programs and services that promote independence, improve quality of life, increase access to critical resources, and foster greater understanding of epilepsy within the community.

A lifelong Western New York resident, Mr. Irwin earned his master’s degree from Canisius University and brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership and community-based services. He is dedicated to strengthening collaborative partnerships, expanding public awareness, reducing the stigma surrounding epilepsy, and ensuring that individuals living with epilepsy have access to the education, support, and advocacy they need to thrive.

Outside of work, Mr. Irwin enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, hiking, and exploring new places with his dog, Paxten.

Cheryl Best, LCSWR-ACSW

Clinical Social Worker

A New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Cheryl Best has been a dedicated member of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York since 1985. She provides counseling, education, advocacy, and support to individuals and families affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders, helping them navigate challenges such as adjusting to a diagnosis, anxiety, depression, relationships, grief, parenting, career concerns, self-esteem, seizure safety, and building resilience. Cheryl also connects individuals with valuable community resources, including healthcare providers, financial assistance, transportation, scholarships, OPWDD services, and recreational and vocational programs.

 

In addition to counseling, Cheryl conducts weekly outreach visits to the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit at Golisano Children’s Hospital, facilitates virtual support groups and social events, and works to ensure individuals and families feel informed, connected, and supported. She considers it a privilege to have served the epilepsy community for more than 40 years and continues to be inspired by the strength and resilience of the individuals and families she meets. Outside of work, Cheryl enjoys spending time with her husband, their two grown children and their spouses, hiking, boating, gardening, painting, and caring for her beloved cats.

Allie Roesch

Support Counselor and Community Advocate

Allie Roesch has worked in the mental health and human services field since 2012, bringing extensive experience supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. She joined the Epilepsy Association of Western New York in July 2024 as a Support Counselor and Community Advocate, where she advances the Association’s mission by providing compassionate counseling, education, advocacy, and resource navigation for individuals living with epilepsy and seizure disorders. Her work helps empower people to better understand their condition, overcome barriers, access essential services, and improve their quality of life.

In addition to her role at the Epilepsy Association, Allie serves as a Care Advisor at PinnacleCare, helping clients navigate complex healthcare decisions with empathy and expertise. Outside of her professional roles, she enjoys traveling, spending time with her husband, and exploring new adventures with their rescue Standard Goldendoodle, Craig.

Renay Moran, M. Ed.

Information Services Coordinator

For more than 22 years, Renay has served the Epilepsy Association of Western New York as Information Services Coordinator, Race Director, and former Epilepsy Conference Director. She is dedicated to advancing the Association’s mission by increasing epilepsy awareness, reducing stigma, and improving community safety through education. She provides seizure recognition and first aid training for schools, organizations, families, and community members, helping ensure that individuals living with epilepsy are better understood and supported.

In addition to coordinating community outreach initiatives and special events, she researches, writes, and produces the Association’s annual newsletter, The Epigram, connecting the community with educational resources, advocacy efforts, and stories of hope. Her work reflects a longstanding commitment to empowering individuals and families affected by epilepsy through education, awareness, and support.

Outside of work, she has been happily married to her husband, Joe, for 41 years and is the proud mother of two sons and grandmother of two grandchildren. She enjoys traveling, attending live concerts, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Lynn Carapellatti, BS

Family Support Services

Lynn has been a dedicated member of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York since 2007, advancing the organization’s mission by providing compassionate support, education, and guidance to individuals living with epilepsy and seizure disorders and their families. Before joining the Association, she spent 16 years working in a residential program supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, including many affected by epilepsy.

Drawing on more than three decades of experience, Lynn empowers individuals and families with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to navigate the challenges of epilepsy with confidence. She provides education, answers questions, addresses concerns, and connects people with services that promote independence, enhance quality of life, and strengthen community support. Lynn proudly serves individuals and families throughout Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties.

Nancy Brown

Administrative Assistant

Nancy Brown serves as the Administrative Assistant at the Epilepsy Association of Western New York (EAWNY), where she plays an essential role in supporting the organization’s mission of improving the lives of individuals and families affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders. By coordinating daily operations and providing administrative support across programs, services, and community outreach efforts, Nancy helps ensure the Association remains responsive, organized, and accessible to those who rely on its services.

Outside of the office, Nancy enjoys planning her next travel adventure and exploring new destinations. She also treasures spending time with her family, whose support and encouragement inspire her commitment to helping create a welcoming and compassionate experience for everyone who connects with the Association.

Our Board of Directors

Guiding our mission with experience and compassion.

Sean Radlich

President

Rebecca Smith

Vice President

Daniel Suttell, CPA

Treasurer

Theresa Drum

Secretary

Robert Glover, MD

Kyle Kieffer

Alexus Ludwig

Barbara Kaderli

Sean Radlich

President

Sean Radlich serves as President of the Board of Directors of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York. With more than 25 years of experience spanning sales, marketing, digital innovation, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, Sean brings a broad range of leadership and strategic expertise to the organization.

Professionally, Sean leads the Digital Product Management team at Highmark Health. In addition, he operates two businesses: one focused on financial education and another dedicated to supporting job readiness and employment opportunities for individuals in recovery.

Sean’s commitment to the Epilepsy Association is deeply personal. His son, Aidan, lives with both epilepsy and autism, giving Sean firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals and families navigating complex neurological and developmental conditions. Together, Sean, his wife Lisa, and their son reside in the Southtowns of Western New York.

As Board President, Sean is dedicated to advancing the Association’s mission of providing education, advocacy, support, and resources to individuals and families affected by epilepsy throughout the region. Outside of his professional and volunteer commitments, he enjoys running, investing in real estate, competing in CrossFit events, and reading on a wide variety of topics.

Rebecca Smith

Vice President

Rebecca Smith has been a human services professional in Western New York for more than 30 years. Her extensive career has included roles ranging from direct support professional to department director, providing her with broad experience in serving individuals and families across a variety of settings.

Rebecca currently serves as a Fiscal Intermediary, supporting individuals who receive self-directed services through the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). She is also pursuing Support Broker certification, expected in March 2026, further strengthening her commitment to person-centered services and advocacy.

Since joining the Board of Directors of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York in 2023, Rebecca has played an active role in advancing the organization’s mission. She currently serves as Vice President of the Board, helping to support epilepsy education, advocacy, outreach, and services for individuals and families throughout the region.

In addition to her professional and volunteer leadership, Rebecca is an active member of the Abigail Fillmore Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), reflecting her ongoing commitment to community service and civic engagement.

Daniel Suttell, CPA

Treasurer

Dan Suttell, CPA serves as Treasurer of the Board of Directors of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York. In this role, he provides financial oversight and guidance in support of the organization’s mission and long-term sustainability.

As a Certified Public Accountant, Dan brings professional expertise in accounting, financial management, and fiscal accountability to the Board. His experience supports sound financial planning, reporting, and stewardship of organizational resources.

Through his service as Treasurer, Dan is committed to ensuring responsible management of funds in support of the Epilepsy Association’s programs, services, and advocacy efforts for individuals and families affected by epilepsy throughout Western New York.

Theresa Drum

Secretary

Theresa Clark Drum serves as Secretary of the Board of Directors of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York. She is also the Director of Strategy and Development at Parent Network of Western New York, where she has been a dedicated member of the organization since its reformation in 2002. Beginning her career with Parent Network as a Parent Educator, Theresa has advanced through a variety of leadership roles, including Training Manager, Quality Assurance and Grant Manager, and Fund Development Director. Her more than 30 years of experience in special education, disability advocacy, healthcare advocacy, grant development, and program administration provide valuable expertise and institutional knowledge.

Prior to joining Parent Network, Theresa worked in the Family & Assistive Technology Library within the Early Childhood Program at Children’s Hospital of Buffalo/Kaleida Health, where she coordinated family events and provided support to families and staff. Throughout her career, she has developed extensive experience in training, family support, program development, grant writing, data management, and program evaluation.

A passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities and their families, Theresa is committed to elevating family voices and creating innovative programs and services that address their evolving needs. Her professional work is informed by personal experience as the mother of a young man with complex medical needs and disabilities, giving her a unique perspective that continues to guide her advocacy and leadership.

Through her service on the Epilepsy Association of Western New York Board of Directors, Theresa helps advance the organization’s mission of providing education, advocacy, support, and resources to individuals and families affected by epilepsy throughout Western New York.

Robert Glover, MD

Dr. Robert L. Glover joined the Board of Directors of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York in 2017. A Western New York native, Dr. Glover is a neurologist with specialized training in the care and treatment of people living with epilepsy.

After earning his medical degree and completing his postgraduate training in New York City, he returned to Buffalo in 2016 and established a busy adult epilepsy practice with UBMD. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Glover is an active educator at the University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, where he teaches medical students, residents, and fellows.

Through his clinical expertise, teaching, and board service, Dr. Glover is dedicated to improving epilepsy care, education, and advocacy throughout Western New York.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, he enjoys jogging, science fiction movies, and spending time with his wife, Audrey, and their two children, Josephine and Vincent.

Kyle Kieffer

Kyle Kieffer serves on the Board of Directors of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York. He joined the board to support the organization’s mission, bringing a deeply personal understanding of epilepsy and its lifelong impact.

Kyle has been living with epilepsy since the age of nine, when his diagnosis significantly changed the course of his childhood. Since then, he has navigated the ongoing realities of the condition, including adjustments to anti-seizure medications, seeking multiple medical opinions, and managing the emotional and physical challenges of unpredictable seizures.

His lived experience with epilepsy has shaped his perspective and commitment to advocacy, reinforcing his dedication to supporting others in the epilepsy community and helping improve awareness, understanding, and care throughout Western New York.

Alexus Ludwig

Dr. Alexus Ludwig is a board-certified neurologist and epileptologist dedicated to providing comprehensive epilepsy care throughout Western New York. She completed both her neurology residency and epilepsy fellowship at the University at Buffalo and currently serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Neurology and Associate Program Director for the Adult Neurology Residency Program.

Dr. Ludwig specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy, with a particular focus on the unique needs of women living with epilepsy. Through her clinical practice, teaching, and community involvement, she is committed to advancing epilepsy education, advocacy, and access to high-quality care for individuals and families affected by epilepsy.

As a member of the Board of the Epilepsy Association of Western New York, Dr. Ludwig supports the organization’s mission to provide education, resources, and support services that improve the lives of those living with epilepsy.

Barbara Kaderli

Barbara Kaderli joins the Board of Directors for the Epilepsy Association of Western New York (EAWNY) with over 20
years of professional experience as an educator and a profound personal commitment to advocacy.
As a dedicated teacher, Barbara has spent more than two decades fostering inclusive environments and advocating for
the rights of individuals with a wide variety of differences and disabilities. Her passion for community service is further
demonstrated by her previous board leadership with the Buffalo Sabres Sled Hockey team, an inclusive sports program
dedicated to expanding athletic opportunities for individuals of all abilities.
Barbara’s connection to the EAWNY mission is deeply personal. Inspired by her daughter, Sydney, who lives with
epilepsy, Barbara is an active advocate for epilepsy awareness and support systems. Her advocacy work uniquely
extends to her home life, where she is currently training a therapy dog to work alongside her students.
Barbara resides in Western New York with her husband, Eric, their daughter Sydney,their son Sawyer, and their three
beloved dogs. Her oldest son, Ashton, resides in Chicago. She is honored to bring her experience as an educator,
advocate, and mother to the EAWNY board to help empower individuals and families impacted by epilepsy.

Make a difference today

When you give to EAWNY, you help fund services that support people living with epilepsy at every stage of life. Your donation helps us build a stronger, more informed, and connected Western New York.

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