Canadians Talk Duchenne – February 2023

Living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy can often feel isolating. That’s why Defeat Duchenne Canada has partnered with Duchenne Canadian Connection to create a sense of community by bringing families together from across the country to learn from one another and discuss current events that are relevant to our Duchenne community. So, grab your favourite beverage and join our monthly virtual social for parents and caregivers.

Each social will be live via Zoom at 7:00 PM ET. Canadians Talk Duchenne is a free event and is open on a first-come, first-served basis to the first 25 registrants. Once registered, you will receive an email with the Zoom details.

New in 2023: This year, we will have ‘feature families’ who will share their journey living with Duchenne, the struggles they’ve overcome and provide an opportunity for informal Q&A.

Feature Family for February: Khalid Mahdi

Khalid is a Toronto-based lawyer practicing in the areas of estate, immigration and refugee law.

As a 33-year-old living with Duchenne, Khalid has spent much of his life navigating the social and health challenges posed by the disability. Consequently, Khalid possesses significant experience navigating the adult and pediatric-care system, as well other available services, such as attendant-care and educational supports. As an Advocacy Ambassador with Defeat Duchenne, Khalid intends to draw upon his personal and professional experiences to support and advocate for all those affected by Duchenne.

Khalid attended law school at the University of Western Ontario’s Faculty of Law, and was called to the Ontario Bar in August 2021. Prior to law school, Khalid obtained an Honors Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and International Relations from the University of Toronto. Following this, Khalid earned a Master of Global Affairs degree from the University of Toronto’s Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, where his capstone project focused on international approaches to combatting money laundering and terrorism financing.

In his spare time, when he doesn’t have his nose in the books, Khalid enjoys watching pro-sports as an avid Toronto Blue Jays and Raptors Fan. He also enjoys cooking, travelling, and reading the occasional spy novel.

Would you be interested in sharing your story? Email [email protected] for more information.

About Duchenne Canadian Connection

Amy Cavalier started the Facebook group Duchenne Canadian Connection after her two sons –  Kaleb and Liam, were diagnosed with Duchenne. Amy co-hosts Canadians Talk Duchenne with Defeat Duchenne Canada, sharing her personal perspective with other families living with this rare disease.