Danielle Campo McLeod is an inspirational Canadian Paralympic swimmer, award-winning inspirational speaker, and dedicated advocate whose life story embodies resilience and determination. Diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) at the age of two—a condition that was initially misdiagnosed as muscular dystrophy—Danielle faced significant challenges from a young age. Despite her condition, she discovered a passion for swimming, which became a place of freedom and equality for her. In the water, she felt empowered and capable, propelling her to pursue competitive swimming.
Danielle’s exceptional talent and dedication led her to represent Canada at the Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 Paralympic Games. She earned multiple gold medals and set eight world records, amassing a total of 17 Paralympic and World Championship medals throughout her career. Her achievements brought recognition not only to herself but also shed light on the abilities of athletes with disabilities.
Following her athletic success, Danielle committed herself to advocacy and community engagement. Danielle has served on many boards of directors with a focus on bettering her community Danielle was a national ambassador for Muscular Dystrophy Canada for over 15 years. She served as the Director of Culture and Engagement at Muscular Dystrophy Canada, where her leadership was instrumental in raising over $5 million for neuromuscular disease research. In her current role as the Mental Health Lead at the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board, she focuses on promoting mental well-being, inclusivity, and support for students facing various challenges, including disabilities and mental health issues.
As a mother of three children and stepmother to two more, with two of her youngest children diagnosed with SMA, Danielle brings a unique and personal perspective to her advocacy. Her experiences as both an individual with a disability and a parent navigating her children’s diagnoses have deepened her commitment to fostering understanding and support within communities.
Danielle shares her journey in her memoir, “Resurrections: My Will to Survive is Olympian,” offering an honest and uplifting perspective on overcoming life’s hurdles. Her contributions have been recognized with prestigious honors, including the Order of Ontario and the Queen Elizabeth II Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medal, and Terry Fox Humanitarian Award. The youngest person to be awarded an Honourary Doctorate from the faculty of Law at the University of Windsor
In 2024, Danielle extended her winning streak by winning Speaker Slam – North America’s Largest Inspirational Speaking Competition.
Her story and advocacy work have been featured on major media outlets such as The Social, Breakfast Television, CP24, 100 Huntley, CHCH, CBC, and CTV News. Through her public speaking engagements and community involvement, Danielle continues to inspire others to embrace resilience, focus on abilities, and work towards a more inclusive and understanding society.
