About Teagan

My name is Teagan Archer-Parrell (Bussard), I have been engrained in the disability community since the young age of 5 when my sister, Faith, was born in 1999. Faith has a rare, terminal genetic condition called MPS1, also known as mucopolysaccharidosis. Because of this disease, she has intellectual and physical disabilities that have not only changed her life, but mine and the rest of our family. I have watched firsthand the struggles my parents have gone through in gaining care, even having to travel to Sick Kids hospital in Toronto twice for much-needed medical care... and as an adult have watched and helped with the transition from child hospitals and care into the system, as well as the maze of paperwork and applications associated with gaining support from the government and social services.

From my early life experiences, I knew I wanted to help support and uplift the voices of individuals, families, and businesses who see the huge potential and knowledge of those with disabilities in our communities. As an adult, I attended Maritime Business College and studied Human Services Support and worked as an EPA (educational program assistant) with Halifax Regional Center for Education, and have since been doing casual respite and advocacy work since the birth of my oldest son in 2017.

When my oldest son was born, I had no idea of the journey ahead of us. We found out he had ASD (autism spectrum disorder) just after he turned one. The path to getting an official diagnosis and support along the way was extremely daunting, exhausting, and lonely. Trying to find the resources we needed, and still need, is far more difficult than I could’ve imagined. Living amidst it all has given me a unique perspective of what’s needed for individuals with all types of disabilities to live and thrive, both as children and as adults in society. It’s with this unique view from being a sibling, professional, and parent that I truly seek to help others at home, in the community, and in business. I hope to provide comfort, support, and a better future for all, and to make a real tangible impact on society as a whole.