Multi-Paralympic medal winner Danielle Campo McLeod is in critical condition at a hospital in her native Canada, with the swimmer experiencing complications after having given birth to her third child.
The 36-year-old gave birth two weeks ago but is on life support with Campo McLeod’s mother describing the situation as ‘very grave’ and ‘we’re just hanging on from minute to minute.’
The 2000 and 2004 Paralympian underwent a C-section and a bowel resection due to the complications and is now fighting for her life with septic shock syndrome. (AM800)
Campo McLeod was originally diagnosed with muscular dystrophy early on in life but remarkably had a change in diagnosis just two years ago. Instead of the genetic disease which causes progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass, Campo McLeod was told she instead was actually suffering from congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS). (CBC)
CMS results in an underlying defect in the transmission of signals from nerve cells to muscles. These types of disorders are characterized by muscle weakness, which is worsened upon exertion. (Rarediseases.org)
In Campo McLeod’s case, it took 35 years to find the rare genetic mutation which cause the disease.
Retired Campo McLeod took three gold medals at the 2000 Paralympic Games Sydney among her athletic achievements.
This is horrible news. I coached Danielle in 2000 and certainly never expected such a terrible affliction in her life. So sorry about this sad situation.
Fight, use your capable Aura.
Dear Danielle, fight with everything you’ve got! People all over the world- and your family- love you and need you to FIGHT! I pray that God heard our prayers and heals your body.
This story touched me a great deal. As if a life long disease was not enough for Danielle to overcome. I hope she recovers and can swim again. 19 years ago my wife delivered twins (total 15 pounds) also with C-section and almost died 2 days later due to excess bleeding. She is my hero, as Danielle is, and all women that do not need evil Texas politicians to tell them what they can or cannot do with their bodies.
USA leads the developed world in post natal maternal deaths at 17 per 100,000 ( 2018) . Canada is not that good either so both need to do more .
Danielle trained with my varsity team for a semester when I was there and she was so sweet and fun. This is awful to hear. I hope she pulls through.