About us

Karen Spanner-Lauzon

Founder

Karen graduated with honours from the University of Ottawa Human Kinetics undergraduate program and continued to pursue her passion at the University of New Brunswick where she received her Masters in Sports and Exercise Science. Her thesis focused on implementing physical health programs for vulnerable populations and measuring the physical and mental outcomes. This led her back into senior care upon returning to Ottawa. She continued her education and became a certified Cognitive Stimulation Therapist.

Since 2008, Karen has been working to upgrade the quality of life for seniors in the Ottawa area. Karen’s deep understanding of senior care needs and a passion for helping others lead her to establish Self-Sufficient Seniors in 2014. Since then, Karen has been providing innovative programs that are tailored specifically to the individual needs of her clients providing them with the independence seniors deserve.

Jennifer Valliere

Exercise Trainer

Pursing her passion for understanding how the mind and body work together, Jennifer completed her Bachelor of Human Kinetics with Honors at the University of Ottawa. She started her career working at the City of Ottawa as a Recreational Therapist Intern where she facilitated and implemented programs for people regaining their cognitive and physical skills following an acquired brain injury (ABI) or stroke. Following that, Jennifer worked as a physiotherapist assistant before delving into the senior’s health and wellness field as an Activities Coordinator where she implemented programs for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. In her personal time, Jennifer can be found baking, crocheting or swimming.

Joy Halverson

Exercise Trainer

With over 15 years of experience in fitness and wellness, Joy specializes in both group and one-on.one exercise programs tailored for seniors. She has a proven track record in clinical and community settings, delivering fitness classes and personalized training to residents of retirement homes across Ottawa.

As a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Joy has taught a wide variety of classes—from aqua fitness to indoor cycling—at major fitness centers including GoodLife and MOVATI. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, she remained committed to her clients, oering remote classes to keep seniors active and engaged.

Before fully transitioning into the fitness world, Joy spent over 25 years with the Canadian Federal Government as a Team Lead in IT. Now retired from that career, she brings the same dedication, structure, and care to every fitness session she leads. Whether it’s in the pool, in a group setting, or one-on-one, Joy is passionate about helping seniors stay strong, mobile, and independent through safe, eective, and enjoyable exercise.

Kelvin Asabre

Exercise Therapist

Kelvin graduated with Honours from the University of Ottawa with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. He began his career in healthcare as an Athletic Therapist, specializing in working with competitive athletes. Transitioning into the geriatrics field, Kelvin became a Rehabilitation Assistant in long-term care homes. With several years of experience, he has provided group exercise classes and one-on-one strength-based programs.

Additionally, Kelvin is a highly accomplished soccer player. He played varsity soccer throughout his undergraduate career and went on to win multiple National Championships with the Gloucester Celtics men’s premier league team.

Marnie Bird

Cognitive Stimulation Therapist

Marnie brings experience in a myriad of domains surrounding the health and wellness of seniors. After completing her BA with a Major in Health Studies as well as a Disability and Physical Activity Certificate from Queens University, she continued her education in Ottawa being awarded her Therapeutic Recreation Graduate Certificate from Algonquin College. She has worked in many facets of seniors care including being an Activity Manager and Project Coordinator and has grown her knowledge base by successfully completing courses on behaviour management, mental health and wellness for residents, fall prevention and chair yoga.

Marnie is compassionate and enthusiastic in her personalized approach to seniors care giving her the ability to make meaningful connections with all of her clients.

Sun Yujia

Exercise Trainer

Sun Yujia is a certified Exercise Trainer with a background in both physiotherapy assistance and occupational therapy support. A graduate of Algonquin College’s OTA/PTA program, she brings years of experience working with seniors in long-term care homes, hospitals, and rehabilitation clinics across Ottawa.

Sun has supported a wide range of clients, including those recovering from motor vehicle accidents and those managing age-related mobility challenges. Her training includes gait and balance exercises, safe transfer techniques, and restorative care—all delivered with professionalism, patience, and empathy.

Fluent in English and Mandarin and currently learning French, Sun is committed to clear communication and culturally responsive care. Whether working one-on-one or as part of an interdisciplinary team, she helps older adults regain confidence, improve strength, and stay independent through safe, personalized movement programs.

Taylor Russell

Cognitive Stimulation Therapist

Taylor Russell is a certified Cognitive Coach through Fit Minds and brings over seven years of experience in behavioral therapy, developmental support, and senior care. As a Cognitive Stimulation Therapist, he draws from a diverse background that includes ABA therapy, behavior counseling, and personal support work to create personalized, engaging sessions that promote mental sharpness, memory, and independence.

Taylor has worked extensively with individuals facing cognitive challenges, including autism spectrum disorders, dementia, and age-related cognitive decline. His ability to implement structured therapy plans, track progress through detailed data collection, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams ensures clients receive eective, evidence-based support. His work with seniors—both in residential care and home settings—has equipped him with the tools to address the unique cognitive needs of aging adults.

Through a compassionate and client-focused approach, Taylor empowers individuals to maintain and even improve their cognitive abilities, enhancing their quality of life and independence.

Toni Godding

Kinesiologist

Toni brings a strong foundation in Human Kinetics and rehabilitation to our team, holding a Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics (Magna Cum Laude) from the University of Ottawa and a diploma in Occupational and Physiotherapy Assistant studies from Algonquin College. She has hands-on experience across diverse clinical settings—including hospitals, long-term care, and community programs—where she has supported clients of all ages with mobility, exercise, and rehabilitation.

Toni is passionate about promoting strength, independence, and overall well-being among older adults. She has a special interest in adaptive exercise and seniors’ fitness. With a compassionate and energetic approach, Toni ensures her clients feel supported and empowered at every step of the work.