Born with optic nerve dysplasia causing vision loss Danielle has a unique perspective. Determined to be defined by more than just a label of a disability Danielle has carved a path as an entrepreneur, disability advocate and athlete. 

Her passion for helping both people and animals has driven the pursuit of a successful career as a Registered Massage therapist, the co-founding of Leash of Hope Assistance Dogs and being a vocal advocate on tv and media. 

In 2019 Danielle was an honouree of the Women of Worth, awarded by L'Oreal to women who make a significant difference in their communities through charitable work. 

With the aim of breaking down barriers Danielle is an ambassador for adaptive sport, with 15 years of equestrian experience, running with a sighted guide, blind hockey and competitive rowing.

Despite the slow degenerative nature of her eye condition, Danielle is adamant that nothing should stop anyone from living life to the fullest. 

Tessa’s love for dogs started at a young age, growing up on a farm caring for many animals including dogs, horses, goats and cattle meant that Tessa is no stranger to hard work and being versatile to whatever is thrown her way, which isn’t the easier thing from a wheelchair, but that has never slowed her down. Tessa uses a wheelchair to provide her with independence as she has spastic cerebral palsy, despite the potential limitations Tessa has taken it upon herself to adapt her education she has received from internships working with other organizations and has quite the skill set as a dog trainer. When she is not working with dogs she is constantly seeking self education to sharpen her skills. Tessa also prides herself on the vast network of people in the rescue world that she works with to advocate for rescue dogs and acquire suitable puppies for the program.  It was one of Tessa’s goals to raise a dog from birth to see what she can do with it, now that she has Dominic is a beautiful example of her work as a trainer. Due to Tessa’s skill and knowledge she is on the front line of leash of hope working tireless with teams and dogs in training preparing for placement, 

Lily has been on the board with Leash of hope since the very beginning. Her professional training as a photographer and experience in the film industry is as skillset that has been a huge asset to the orgnaziaotn. Lily can be credited with coordinating many large events and fundraisers for Leash of hope such our annual showcase, graduation celebration and many merchandise campaigns. The exceptional photography of the program dogs featured in the annual calendar and cards are products of Lily’s hard work and dedication to the program. Lily spent many years on the board as director of fundraising and since has moved into the role as president working closely with the two founders. When Lily is not hard at work in the film industry or photographing dogs she is spending time with her dog Leahs of hope dogs, Luke a retiree, and Nina a shepherd who didn’t quite make the cut.