Jen Lyman’s passion lies in ensuring that individuals with complex cerebral palsy have the opportunities to actively participate in meaningful experiences that promote self-expression, optimal health, lead to lasting friendships, and that are challenging, fun, inclusive and demonstrate to others that those with disabilities should not be excluded. 

She is the parent of teenager, Bower, who has complex, quadriplegic cerebral palsy, including visual and communication impairments. He is a healthy, happy New Orleanean who loves festivals, working out, eating sushi, swimming, school, and so much more.

Prior to the birth of her son, Jen’s academic training and career path were focused on breaking down barriers to participation for those with disabilities. With a career background both in therapeutic recreation and in case management serving children and adults with developmental and psychiatric disabilities, she has worked in a variety of inpatient, outpatient and community settings, coordinating care and promoting social, recreational and leisure activity participation.

Jen serves as volunteer coordinator of the Cerebral Palsy Collaborative, to advocate for cerebral palsy research funding at national level. She the past Chair of the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine Community Council and she serves on the board of Camp Dream Street. 

Jen holds an M.S. from University of Florida’s College of Health and Human Performance in Therapeutic Recreation, has a certification in Conductive Education, and is a certified yoga instructor with a specialty in yoga for brain injury.  She lives in New Orleans with her husband, Chris, Bower and their golden retriever Everest.