Meet the Self-Advocates of Bethesda
Some of the members of the Chilliwack Group


Kya Bezanson
I have 3 dogs who I adore. I also groom them because I’m learning to be a groomer. Making people smile is my number 1 priority. I loved dressing up for the kids on Halloween at the toy store where I used to work. I love to do art like painting and drawing. Contact me with any questions!


Andrew Toews
I live at Vedder Terrace with my roommate, Jack. I like going for walks and being with my friends and my family. I work at Macdonald’s.


Joanne Doldersum
I live at Vedder Terrace in supported independent living, which helps me with my life skills. I work as a janitor for Bethesda. I like doing crafts and being active in the community.


Mary-Ann Kostelyk
Hi, I’m Mary-Ann. I live at Vedder Terrace and love it! I enjoy going for walks, making cards and being around people.


James Cooper
I’m married to Jacquie. I like to cook, watch movies and play games. I work at a restaurant as a prep cook.


Yoshi Doldersum
I live at Vedder Terrace. I currently work at Superstore as a price checker. I am in a supported independent living program which is allowing me to grow and use my self advocate rights and freedoms.


Stephen Thompson
I live at Vedder Terrace and work at Produce Gone Wild. I like watching sports and meeting my friends for coffee and to go for walks.


Jacquie Cooper
I’m married and I live at Vedder Terrace. I am creative and like doing crafts and taking photos. I like being outdoors. I work at the Galaxy Theatre and volunteer at a daycare.


Jack Witt
I live independently at Vedder Terrace. I'm happy to be a self advocate.


Amber Jeffries
I live at Vedder Terrace with my roommate who is also my friend. I enjoy walking, spending time with my family, drawing, watching movies, and learning life skills with my support worker.


Micaela Gauthier
I live at Vedder Terrace with my roommate and friend, Amber. I enjoy reading, writing, watching movies and TV, baking and spending time with family and friends. I’m involved in self advocacy and happy to chat with anyone who has questions.