Photo: With the right care and support from Sutter Health, Valentina Cocchi overcame epilepsy and Ataxia to finally glide across Hawaiian waters by paddleboard.
Fifteen-year-old Valentina Cocchi loves being active, but epilepsy and a rare neurological disorder called Ataxia slowed her life down considerably. These conditions both affect brain function and coordination, making tasks like walking, standing or even speaking clearly a challenge. As a result, Cocchi’s bucket list wishes, like stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), got sidelined.
“When the attacks happened, I struggled to get from one class to the next,” Cocchi says. “I was very self-conscious about it.”
Cocchi’s mom, Sarah Jimenez, searched extensively for ways to improve her daughter’s quality of life but found no effective solutions until connecting with Sutter pediatric neurologist Dr. Mark Koukkari of the Palo Alto Foundation Medical Group. There, Cocchi received a comprehensive, individualized plan to manage her seizures and improve her balance.
Dr. Mark Koukkari
“Epilepsy and Ataxia affect each person differently, which is why individualized care is so important,” says Dr. Koukkari. “Our goal is to accurately diagnose what’s happening in the brain, reduce seizure frequency, and address any related neurological challenges. Ultimately, we want to help patients regain their confidence and enjoy everyday life.”
With the right medications, Cocchi’s seizures eased. Her physical therapy and targeted exercises also helped her regain mobility. Cocchi’s progress was tangible, even joyful.
“Valentina was able to do stand-up paddleboarding for the first time ever!” says Jimenez. “It was one of those beautiful, simple moments that meant the world.”
“I feel free now,” Cocchi adds. “Trying SUP before made me feel shaky and awkward. Now I can just go for it and try new things without worrying.”
Dr. Victoria Liu
Dr. Victoria Liu, a Sutter neurologist and epilepsy section chief for Sutter Health’s Advanced Neuroscience Services, highlights the system’s broader approach to complex treatment. “Stories like Valentina’s show the impact of coordinated neuroscience care. We treat the whole person, combining leading-edge medical care with support for daily living and overall well-being,” she says.
Across Northern California, Sutter Health teams provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for epilepsy and other neurological conditions, while also helping patients and families navigate the emotional and practical challenges these conditions bring. Support can include education programs, connections to peer groups, and care coordinators who guide families through treatment and daily life.
A New Era in Epilepsy Diagnosis
While Cocchi’s epilepsy diagnosis required in-hospital EEG testing, Sutter is now bringing that capability straight to the doctor’s office, no need for a hospital or specialized lab visit. Select Sutter neurology clinics have begun rolling out Zeto EEG headsets testing. These innovative devices record brainwave activity without the traditional helmet, wires and gel setup, creating a simpler, faster and more comfortable experience for patients.
Valentina Cocchi and Sarah Jimenez
“We’re continuously advancing how we diagnose and treat neurological conditions like epilepsy,” says Dr. Liu. “Innovations like the Zeto headset bring high-quality testing closer to home. It’s all part of Sutter’s commitment to improving the experience and providing patient-centered care.”
Looking to the Future
Today, Cocchi’s progress extends beyond her physical milestones. “She’s more interested in fun now, and her comprehension at school is improving,” Jimenez says. “She’s even decided she wants to be a marine biologist when she grows up.”
“I love the ocean and marine animals,” Cocchi says. “I want to experience life underwater and explore new places through scuba diving.”
For Jimenez, the difference in her daughter is clear. “Valentina is more independent now. She’s living more, laughing more and finally enjoying the world like a typical 15-year-old should. As a mom, there’s no greater gift.”
For more information on neurological care at Sutter, visit https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/Neurology.
For more information on epilepsy care at Sutter, visit https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/comprehensive-epilepsy-care.
