Meet The Team
Buddy Ganesh – Founder & CEO
Buddy Ganesh brings over 20 years of dedicated experience in child and family welfare to his role as Founder and CEO of Still Me Rising, a nonprofit organization committed to uplifting adults living with epilepsy and other neurological conditions through creative, joyful, and inclusive programming.
Driven by the personal journey of his son Michael, who has lived with refractory epilepsy for more than 16 years, Buddy envisioned a safe, empowering space where individuals and families could reconnect with their identity and purpose beyond medical labels. His mission is not clinical care—but compassionate connection.
Holding a degree in Computer Science, Buddy combines his background in systems thinking with deep, firsthand knowledge of social service systems to build effective, heart-centered programming. His leadership is grounded in empathy, resilience, and a steadfast belief that joy, dignity, and community should never be out of reach.
Under his guidance, Still Me Rising aims to become a national model for inclusive, non-medical support for adults with complex neurological needs.
Ann Ganesh - Treasurer
With over 20 years of experience as a successful realtor, Ann brings a wealth of financial insight, attention to detail, and a strong sense of community to her role. But her dedication to Still Me Rising goes far beyond numbers.
Ann has been a steadfast presence throughout Michael’s journey with epilepsy, especially during his long hospitalization in 2009. She knows firsthand the emotional and practical challenges families face when navigating complex neurological conditions.
Her compassion, life experience, and calm strength bring an empathetic voice to our leadership. As Board Treasurer, Ann helps ensure the organization remains fiscally sound while staying deeply rooted in its mission—supporting adults and families through creativity, love, and inclusion.
Michael Ganesh – Ambassador
Michael is the inspiration behind Still Me Rising.
Despite living with refractory epilepsy, he continues to express himself creatively and reminds us every day of the importance of joy, dignity, and community.
Michael was pursuing a degree in Psychology at the University of Central Florida and was midway through his final year when he became critically ill. His determination, strength, and creative spirit remain the heart of our mission.
As our ambassador, Michael shows the world that life with epilepsy is still full of potential, voice, and strength.