About Mac's lived experience
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Disability & Neurodiversity
Mac's lived experience with disability and neurodiversity includes navigating both visible and invisible disabilities including autism, ADHD, chronic pain, fatigue and mobility challenges. They have experienced firsthand the multitude of barriers that can exist within the daily lives of those with disabilities, be it within healthcare, education, recreation and everyday life. For as long as they can remember, they have been advocating for the power of the right support and for a seat at the table. These experiences have shaped the ways in which they advocate and interact with the world.
Mental Health, Suicide Bereavement
Mac's lived experience with mental health have been shaped by their own experiences, the mental health of their younger sister, whom they lost to suicide in 2019, as well as the mental health of those around them. In order to help normalize these conversations and reduce stigma, they make an effort to share openly about their experiences with grief, navigating the healthcare system, mental health diagnoses and finding the right supports. They hope to help remind others that they are not alone in their mental health journey.
LGBTQ+
As a non-binary transmasculine person, Mac's lived experience includes navigating gender identity, coming out and finding their place within the LGBTQ+ community. As someone who initially struggled to find the words to describe how they had been feeling and to find people like them, they hold a deep level of respect for the impact of representation and belonging in our communities. They understand the impact of being seen, respected and supported for who you are as your whole, authentic self.
Adaptive Recreation
As someone who didn't always feel like they had a place in sports and recreation, adaptive sports and opportunities have played a huge role in helping Mac reconnect with movement and adventure. They have had experiences adaptive mountain biking, sit-skiing, kayaking, hiking, playing sledge hockey and more — and honestly? They could not be more at home now. They've experienced both the impacts of barriers and limitations and the transformative impact of accessibility and inclusion. These experiences have reinforced their belief that access is not about lowering expectations, but rather removing barriers and building spaces where everyone can thrive.