Film Industry Professional Richelle Topping Joins Project Sleep’s Board of Directors

In May 2026, Richelle Topping joined the Board of Directors of Project Sleep, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of sleep health, sleep equity, and sleep disorders. 

Richelle Topping is a union camera assistant working on films, television, and commercials around New England. She received a degree in radio and video production from the New England Institute of Technology in 2007 and has been a member of the International Cinematographers Guild Local 600 since 2015.

In 2020, after 18 years of symptoms, Richelle was diagnosed with type 1 narcolepsy with cataplexy at the age of 33. Within a few months of her diagnosis, Richelle came across Project Sleep, finding the resources invaluable in helping her to better understand her diagnosis by connecting with the stories of other people with narcolepsy.

In 2021, Richelle decided to get involved with Project Sleep by participating in Project Sleep’s Sleep In campaign, becoming one of the top fundraisers that year. She has since participated in multiple Sleep Ins, World Narcolepsy Days, and the Rising Voices training program. As a Rising Voices trained speaker, Richelle shares her story with future doctors and psychiatrists to help them recognize the signs of narcolepsy in their patients and better empathize with the patient experience. She has spoken at such places as Brown University, Providence College, and Alkermes. Richelle also uses her passion for sleep health to push for positive changes within the film industry, which is notorious for long work hours and difficult schedules.

Richelle was previously a member of Project Sleep’s Expert Advisory Board and is looking forward to becoming even more involved in supporting Project Sleep’s mission as a member of the Board of Directors. “I’ve experienced firsthand how impactful Project Sleep’s work is, and it is an absolute honor to join this incredible team,” Richelle said. “I’m excited to help expand the organization’s impact and make sleep cool!”

Richelle is an artist, crafter, and musician. She loves to read, travel the world, and try new things.

Please join us in welcoming Richelle Topping to Project Sleep’s leadership team! Learn more about our Board of Directors.

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