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From left, Ying Yi Foo (ZiHeng’s mother), ZiHeng Campbell-Foo and Wesley Tam (medical student) practising suturing.

Growing up, ZiHeng Campbell-Foo never imagined a place for himself in the health professions. As a person with a disability, he had always had a deep desire to improve the quality of life for others like him — but he struggled with the idea that he would be welcome in health care not as a patient, but as a professional.

That all changed when Campbell-Foo attended the º£½ÇÉçÇø’s , a week-long immersive experience that exposes young people from under-represented groups to the field of medicine. “We aim to equip participants with knowledge, resources and mentorship needed to explore a future in health care, while breaking down the barriers that often stand in the way,” says camp co-ordinator Bushra Anjum, a second-year MD student at the º£½ÇÉçÇø who attended herself as a high-school student. Camp volunteers teach physical exam skills and how to take a medical history, work through simulated patient cases, and also provide knowledge and resources to students regarding admissions, mock interviews and finances.

“This camp helped me understand we all have a place in medicine,” says Campbell-Foo, one of 60 students who attended camp in Edmonton from July 7-11, 2025. 

Here, he shares more about his experience at the camp and his hopes for a future in health care.

How did the camp change your view of the medical profession?

Before attending the camp, I didn’t see myself as part of the medical field. This camp showed me that medicine isn’t just for the able-bodied or those from certain backgrounds — it’s for everyone. The experience made me realize that our unique perspectives as people with disabilities aren’t just valid; they are essential in shaping the future of health care.

A group photo from the camp, with volunteers in black shirts and campers in blue.

What inspired you most about the camp?

The medical students and mentors created an environment that wasn’t just inclusive but deeply supportive. One moment that resonated with me was during the medical genetics session, when (assistant professor, medical genetics) shared her personal journey into medical school. Her words, "Why NOT me?" struck a powerful chord. It reinforced the idea that the biggest barriers are often the ones we create for ourselves.

What were some of your favourite experiences?

The hands-on learning sessions were very impactful. I never imagined I would be learning how to take vitals, practise intubation, measure blood pressure and even perform neurology physical exams. 

I was worried that my motor challenges might prevent me from learning how to perform injections, but one of the amazing medical students patiently guided me, helping me learn the technique at my own pace. By the end of the session, I felt not only confident but also excited to help my grandparents with their insulin injections at home once I returned. We also had the opportunity to practise suturing, and thanks to the help and encouragement of another medical student, I pushed through. 

During Grand Rounds, we had the chance to collaborate as a team to present our discoveries in a recorded video, which made it feel like we were truly stepping into the role of medical professionals. The experience of working together was so fulfilling; everyone brought something unique to the table. 

From left, Fiza Ali (second-year medical student), Bushra Anjum (second-year medical student) and ZiHeng Campbell-Foo work on ankle taping.

What’s one interesting thing the camp made you think about in terms of how you might practise medicine in the future?

As I practised suturing, I couldn’t help but wonder how I could adapt it for someone with motor challenges like mine. I began thinking about possible modifications, such as using special grips or developing a support system that could guide hand movements more precisely. This experience sparked an idea of how the skills I was learning could be made more accessible for others with similar challenges — possibly through the use of AI and assistive technology — and it really opened my eyes to the importance of thinking creatively in health care to ensure that everyone can participate.

What advice would you give to someone else applying to this camp?

If you're someone with disabilities thinking about applying to this camp, it’s completely normal to wonder if this is the right place for you, especially if you’ve spent a lot of time feeling like you don’t fit in.

I felt fear and self-doubt when I applied, because I wasn’t sure how my needs would be met or if I could fully participate. But as I gained confidence in navigating the camp’s environment, I realized I could manage more independently. The medical students and mentors are dedicated to creating an environment where your unique perspective isn’t just accepted, but deeply valued. They genuinely care about your success, not just as a student, but as a person.

Your life experiences and abilities bring something incredibly valuable to the table. Don’t let your challenges hold you back — embrace them as the strengths that will allow you to contribute to health care in ways others may not even consider. I can assure you, this camp is exactly where you belong.