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Who we are

For 70+ years, we have been rooted in the firsthand experiences and needs of people affected by neuromuscular disorders. We work with and for the community to drive change and break down barriers, from coast to coast to coast.

Our story

What started as a small group of parents fighting for a better future for their children has grown into a national movement.

In 1954, Dr. David Green and Arthur Minden co-founded the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada. Their vision was clear: advance research, and support families navigating the challenges of neuromuscular disorders.

One of the first to rally behind this mission was Canada’s Fire Fighters. Their passion and fundraising efforts helped launch our earliest research projects and, to this day, they remain some of our strongest allies.

Today, we serve more than 27,000 people in Canada’s neuromuscular community including adults and children living with neuromuscular disorders and their network of family members, healthcare providers, and supporters.

Our team

Board of Directors

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  • Nicole Cote,
  • Chair

Director General, Federal Public Service

“Both my family and I have experienced first-hand the importance of supporting families and individuals with neuromuscular disorders – from equipment, important research updates, peer support and simply belonging to a broader community. Now in my adult life I want to help chart a future where the organization can continue this wonderful legacy and grow the support needed to help more families, researchers, clients and allies.”

Ottawa, ON

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  • Hartley Ruch,

Banking Professional

“I am involved with Muscular Dystrophy Canada to help support Canadians living with neuromuscular disorders. I’ve seen how Muscular Dystrophy Canada provides meaningful support to people in the neuromuscular community which continues to inspire my involvement.”

Scarborough, ON

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  • Mary Warner,

Communications Professional

“I am involved with Muscular Dystrophy Canada because of the power of community. The incredible work that Muscular Dystrophy Canada does, from research to advocacy to providing equipment, is then amplified through a dedicated community of those affected by neuromuscular disorders, families, volunteers, clinicians, researchers and more, a community that I am proud to be a part of, all working together to help each other and improve lives.”

Toronto, ON

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  • Debra Chiabai,

Senior e-Learning Advisor, Canadian Food Inspection Agency

“Through my life-long connection to the organization, I have seen firsthand the help and hope Muscular Dystrophy Canada brings to families through peer support, funding for equipment, and research.”

Ottawa, ON

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  • Kerry Zado,
  • Treasurer and Secretary

Deputy Fire Chief (Retired)

“I became involved with Muscular Dystrophy Canada as a volunteer firefighter in 1989. After retiring as a career Deputy Fire Chief, I continue the fight for a cure and making life easier for those living with Muscular Dystrophy. I made the commitment to never give up the fight, in hopes it will help the many people I have met living with a neuromuscular disorder.”

Langford, BC

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  • Alfred Breton-Paré,

Senior Clinical Research Associate, ICON Strategic Solutions

“Better awareness of clinical trials and improved access to treatments can make a huge difference to families like mine in the neuromuscular community and empower them to make informed decisions. This need combined with my professional and personal experience have led me to become involved with Muscular Dystrophy Canada.”

Quebec, QC

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  • Fanny Chagnon,

Scientist (Currently on leave)

“As a volunteer since 2011 and someone who benefits directly from the services of Muscular Dystrophy Canada, I understand firsthand the importance of all aspects of the organization’s work. Patient input is essential to Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s mission which is why I became involved with the Board.”

Montreal, QC

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  • Dr. Jodi Warman Chardon,

Clinician-Scientist, Director of the Ottawa Neuromuscular Centre, The Ottawa Hospital; Associate Scientist, OHRI; Scientist, CHEORI; Associate Professor of Neurology, Co-Director of the Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, University of Ottawa

“Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s dedication to supporting those with neuromuscular disorders — through access to care, knowledge translation, and ground-breaking research — inspires me deeply. I am proud to contribute to this dynamic, organization driving real change and hope for individuals and families across the country.”

Ottawa, ON

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  • Michael Low,

Senior Litigation Associate, MLT Aikins LLLP

“I have seen firsthand how Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s commitment to research, support and advocacy can help ensure that families affected by neuromuscular conditions have the support and opportunities they deserve. I joined the Board to further that mission and to ensure that Canadians affected by neuromuscular disorders feel supported and empowered throughout their lives.”

Calgary, AB

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  • Scott Marks,

Fire Fighter (Retired)

“I am aware of the synergy that has existed between Fire Fighters and Muscular Dystrophy Canada in both the US and Canada. I would like to work to foster that relationship so that Fire Fighters can contribute more to assist the important work Muscular Dystrophy Canada does on behalf of its clients.”

Ottawa, ON

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  • Donna Nixon,

Partner, Market Research & Strategy, The Strategic Counsel

“Everyone deserves the chance to live fully, regardless of the challenges they face. People with neuromuscular disorders show incredible strength every day. I feel strongly that the work we are doing at Muscular Dystrophy Canada is helping to break down barriers, foster inclusion, and empower lives. Together, we can make a difference and create lasting change.”

Ottawa, ON

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  • Lise Poulin,

Customer Relations Coordinator

“Muscular Dystrophy Canada is part of my DNA. In addition to benefiting from its services and support throughout my life, I have been a spokesperson, hosted fundraising events and helped organize the Montreal Walk and Roll. I have benefited from research advances and am passionate about putting my experience and knowledge to work in support of the organization’s mission. If we give generously, we will prevail!”

Lachine, QC

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  • Kara Reid,

Occupational Therapist, Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation

“The positive impact of Muscular Dystrophy Canada can be clearly seen through the support, education, research and funding provided to children, their families and teams of health care professionals. Feedback from families involved with Muscular Dystrophy Canada has motivated me to become more active with the organization, so that I too can work to better the quality of life for individuals with neuromuscular disorders across our country.”

New Maryland, NB

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  • Liz Stirling,

Research Administrator/Occupational Therapist (Retired)

“I am involved with Muscular Dystrophy Canada because of the organization’s deep commitment to both research and program delivery. The mandate is important to the lives of many Canadians and I am pleased to be involved in the ongoing development of priorities and programs across the country.”

Ottawa, ON

Leadership Team

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  • Stacey Lintern,
  • Chief Executive Officer
“Our community has taught me to persevere, be bold, adapt, to not give up — and to stay forever hopeful. I am so fortunate to work in an organization that is passionate and committed to making a difference.” 
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  • Marie-Hélène Bolduc,
  • Vice President, Programs and Services
“Our team is driven by empowering individuals and families to live fully and confidently. Every program we deliver is built with compassion, innovation, and the voices of our community. Together, we’re creating a future with more possibilities and fewer barriers.”
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  • Danielle Campo McLeod,
  • National Ambassador
“This mission is deeply personal. I’ve lived the challenges of a neuromuscular disorder and walked alongside my children through theirs. I’m passionate about building a future where every person feels seen, supported, and empowered. Muscular Dystrophy Canada gives me the platform to turn lived experience into impact — and I’m committed to making that difference every day.”
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  • Zoe Charalambous,
  • Vice President, Finance
“As Vice President of Finance at Muscular Dystrophy Canada, I’m honoured to support a mission that empowers individuals and families across the country. Every financial decision we make is rooted in a commitment to transparency, sustainability, and impact — ensuring that vital research, services, and advocacy continue to reach those who need them most.”
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  • Kendra Morton,
  • Vice President, Talent
“If you are working on something you really care about, you don’t have to be pushed. The vision pulls you.’ I love this quote from Steve Jobs because it perfectly describes our staff and volunteers, who together are helping people affected by neuromuscular disorders to live their best lives.”
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  • Homira Osman, PhD,
  • Vice President, Research and Public Policy
“Being part of a purpose-driven team committed to collaboration and equity allows me to transform research and lived experience into lasting change for the neuromuscular community.”
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  • Jennifer Williams,
  • Vice President of Philanthropy
“Working in partnership with our donors and partners is incredibly inspiring. Whether holding a boot, organizing an event or making a personal donation, they are all making a difference. Truly every dollar counts and supports our resilient neuromuscular community to meet their own goals, whatever they may be.”

Medical Scientific Advisory Committee (MSAC)

Our Medical Scientific Advisory Committee (MSAC) is a group of physicians, scientists, and leaders in neuromuscular research and care. The MSAC provides expert guidance on our research investments, medical education, and advocacy initiatives, ensuring that our programs are informed by the latest science and the real-world needs of people living with neuromuscular disorders.

DR ROBIN PARKS, CHAIR

Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

Dr Benoit Gentil

McGill University

Dr Cynthia Gagnon

Université de Sherbrooke

DR JODI WARMAN-CHARDON

Ottawa Hospital / University of Ottawa

Dr Colleen O’Connell

Horizon Health Network – Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation, New Brunswick

Dr Élise Duchesne

Université Laval

Dr Gerald Pfeffer

University of Calgary

Dr Hanns Lochmüller

Ottawa Hospital / University of Ottawa

Dr Maryam Oskoui

McGill University

Dr Toshifumi Yokota

University of Alberta

National Fire Fighter Relations Committee (NFFRC)

Fire Fighters were the first to rally behind our mission and have fueled our work for decades. The National Fire Fighter Relations Committee strengthens our partnerships with Fire Departments and Associations across Canada, mobilizing their support and amplifying their impact in support of our mission.

DAN HAMEL

Chair

Dave Earle

NL Representative

Kenny Arsenault

NS Representative

MARK POUND

NS Representative

Shawn Cunningham

NB Representative

SEAN DONOVAN

ON Representative

GRACE DEMPSEY

ON Representative

BRODIE GRANT

ON Representative

Norm Mac Leod

BC Representative

DUSTIN CURRY

BC Representative

Chantelle Cormier

AB Representative

Looking for an exciting new career?​

Explore our open career and volunteer opportunities. 

explore now
Three volunteers stand smiling outside a building, wearing volunteer badges and name tags on red lanyards.

Looking for an exciting new career?​

Explore our open career and volunteer opportunities. 

EXPLORE NOW

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