Julia Campbell, an MS patient and event participant, shares her journey of resilience and determination as part of the Punch Out MS initiative, which aims to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis. Diagnosed with MS in April 2023, Julia refused to let the condition define her.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
The Punch Out MS has been put together to raise funds and awareness for MS.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Approximately 90,000 Canadians have MS. 12 Canadians are diagnosed with MS every DAY.
When did you start/join it?
I was diagnosed with MS in April of 2023 and joined the Punch Out MS training camp in April of 2024.
What made you want to get involved?
I did not want my MS diagnosis to define me. I enjoy Karate and have been a proud member of Bernardo Karate in London since 2003. So, when the opportunity presented itself to prove to myself and others that your dreams don’t end at diagnosis, I jumped at the opportunity. I understand that not everyone will be able to jump into the ring and box, but maybe try something outside of their comfort zone. Keep fighting and keep growing.
What was the situation like when you started?
When I started with boxing I had been away from the gym for several months, I had lost my strength, balance, and coordination. After a short while being back in the gym I began to get stronger and regain a lot of the self-confidence I lost with my diagnosis. With that, balance and coordination started to come back. I still have issues with my balance and coordination, but it keeps improving every day.
What more needs to be done?
More research, more money needs to be raised. MS can and will be beaten.
Do you have any events coming up?
Our next event will be in the spring. If you’re able to donate to the event, it would be very appreciated.
Where can we follow you?
Kilos_and_Katas, this is me!
Event: PunchoutMS
Training centre: MPTfitness
Dr Juan Racosta – Promoter
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Kids Kicking Cancer.
