Vancouver Goldeneyes goaltender Kristen Campbell has always looked up to her mother. Janet Campbell, like many hockey parents, dedicated countless hours in cold arenas, shuttling kids to practices, and enthusiastically supporting every play from the sidelines. Amidst Kristen’s battles on the ice, Janet fought her own battle against multiple sclerosis, a condition she was diagnosed with in 1999 when Kristen was just two years old.
Kristen Campbell shared how inspiring it has been to witness her mother navigate the challenges of the disease while prioritizing her family and children. Janet’s resilience and unwavering support, despite her personal struggles, have made her Kristen’s best friend and ultimate role model in life.
Hailing from Brandon, Manitoba, Campbell is using her family’s experience as part of A&W’s annual Burgers to Beat MS initiative. On August 20, A&W will donate $2 from every Teen Burger sold nationwide to MS Canada, aiding individuals living with the disease and advancing treatment research.
“My mom is among the 90,000 Canadians living with MS, making it a cause close to my heart and fellow Canadians,” Campbell expressed. “I aim to stand in solidarity with all those battling MS, raise awareness, advocate for enhanced treatments, and ultimately strive for a cure.”
MS, impacting the central nervous system, manifests diverse symptoms ranging from vision impairment to cognitive changes. While Janet Campbell’s symptoms are mostly invisible, including headaches, leg stiffness, and sensitivity to temperature shifts, Kristen emphasized her mother’s ability to lead a fulfilling life despite the challenges.
Campbell attributes many of her qualities, particularly her work ethic, to her mother, propelling her successful career as a 28-year-old goaltender. From winning gold at the 2022 Olympics to being named the PWHL’s top goaltender in 2024, Campbell’s achievements underscore her dedication to the sport.
After a season with the Vancouver Goldeneyes, Campbell reflected on the team’s inaugural experience and her personal journey. She engaged in coaching, ran goalie camps, and resumed her training regimen to prepare for the upcoming season. As she gears up for the league’s expansion with new teams in San Jose, Las Vegas, Detroit, and Hamilton, Campbell looks forward to the PWHL’s growth and the continued support of loyal fans.
The upcoming season, commencing in November, promises an exciting shift for the PWHL with an expanded roster of 12 teams, marking a significant evolution since Campbell’s debut in January 2024. The league’s progress, now featuring NHL venues and sold-out arenas, stands as a testament to fan dedication and belief in the league’s future.
Through her personal journey and dedication to both her career and supporting MS research, Kristen Campbell exemplifies resilience, determination, and a commitment to making a difference both on and off the ice.