48: Episode 47 - Wrapping Up 2024 with Leah and Ira

In this Quest Podcast episode, we chat with Muscular Dystrophy Association’s National Ambassadors, Leah Z., and Ira Walker. Leah is a dedicated advocate that feels it is important to advocate for yourself and stand up for those that are not able.Ira feels that connecting and sharing his story with others through MDA has been life changing. These Ambassadors join us to share their experiences, expertise, and advice.

Transcription

Guests: 

Leah is 17 years old and was born with an ultra-rare form of neuromuscular disease. She is an accomplished actress, dancer, model and adaptive athlete. She has danced on the Lincoln Center stage, walked in New York Fashion Week...twice, and appeared in the Jennifer Lopez movie, Marry Me. 

Connect with Leah:

• Instagram - @leahj.zelaya

Ira is a 39-year-old who lives with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). He’s an avid sports fan, cultural connoisseur of the arts, and an impressive cook who is constantly evolving his culinary abilities. A highly independent and active gentlemen that is living his dream and best life in south Florida while working an exciting career in HR and loves exploring the the sights and sounds of his environment in his sophisticated modified van.

Connect with Ira: 

• Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/IraWalker321

Host:

Mindy Henderson is MDA’s Vice President of Disability Outreach & Empowerment & Editor-in-Chief of Quest Media, and the host of this podcast.  She was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, type 2 when she was 15 months old and has been a life-long partner to MDA.  Mindy is also a motivational speaker and a writer, and author of the book, The Truth About Things That Suck.

Connect with Mindy: 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hendersonmindy/     
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindyhendersonspeaks/