Jamie Duplechine

Jamie Duplechine serves on the CAC as a self-advocate. Jamie’s most unique characteristic is her drive and resilience, and uses her own story to encourage others. After becoming paralyzed from a car accident when she was 15-years old, her main focus was not “getting better,” but learning how to live life as if nothing changed. She strives to show others that you can adapt and move forward despite the situation you’re in.

Jamie is committed to teaching adaptability and creating change in the disability community through her work as a program coordinator for People First of Louisiana, a self-advocacy organization run by individuals with disabilities for individuals with disabilities.

Jamie is proud of everything she has accomplished since her injury. To name a few titles, Jamie was awarded Ms. Wheelchair Louisiana in 2015 and 2017, 2020 “Advocate of the Year” from Arc of Louisiana, and the GODA Gold Award in 2016.

Jamie also serves as chair for the statewide Independent Living Council. She is an honorary board member of the Brain Injury Association of Louisiana/United Spinal Association Louisiana Chapter.