Danielle Campo-McLeod: A Friend and an Icon

On May 28, 2024, I met someone who was also born with a neuromuscular disorder, in-person for the first time ever. And as if being part of Speaker Slam hasn't changed my life enough, it happened at one of their competitions.

Danielle Campo McLeod is an 8-time Paralympic medallist, National Ambassador for Muscular Dystrophy Canada and National Hero recipient of Canada's Walk of Fame. And ever since we met, she's included me along for the ride.

I've seen Danielle speak a few times - when she was interviewed for The Social during the 2024 Summer Paralympics, when she became the Speaker Slam #1 Inspirational Speaker of the Year, when she was accepting her Canada Walk of Fame award - and every single time has made me cry.

It always sneaks up on me, seemingly coming out of nowhere - but also, I know it's not really out of nowhere.

It's from a place of finally meeting and hearing from someone who understands the journey of living with a neuromuscular disorder.

Of finally feeling seen in a way I hadn't for the 30+ years before we met.

Of finally seeing representation of life and success with a neuromuscular disorder, that I never knew I needed.

Because of Danielle, I'm the Toronto Walk Champion for the Muscular Dystrophy Canada Walk and Roll on May 24 (almost exactly two years after we met!) and I'm so excited to meet and represent even more people in the neuromuscular community - a community I hadn't really realized existed, even though I've been part of it my whole life.

I'd love to have you join or support - you can donate to my participant page, or click "join team" on my page to register for the Yay Team! 🎉💃🏽✨