Actress, model, and disability advocate Jillian Mercado addressed an audience of 200 at Good Shepherd Rehabilitation’s annual National Speaker Event in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The event took place on June 4 at Good Shepherd’s South Allentown Campus.
Diagnosed with spastic muscular dystrophy as a child, Mercado has emerged as a significant figure in the fashion industry, challenging conventional beauty standards. She has participated in campaigns for major brands like Olay, Nordstrom, Target, and Beyoncé. Her work also includes appearances on Times Square billboards and starring roles in television series such as Showtime’s “The L Word: Generation Q.”
During her keynote speech, Mercado shared insights into her journey and expressed pride in her achievements. She stated: “If you live with a disability: Keep showing up. Loudly. Boldly. And without apology. You are not here to shrink. You’re here to take up space and shift the atmosphere.” She encouraged allies to take action by saying: “Start where you are. Speak up when you see inaccessibility. Make room at your tables — your literal tables, your boardroom tables, your dinner tables. And listen — truly listen — when someone tells you what they need.”
WFMZ-TV anchor served as the event’s guest emcee and facilitated an audience Q&A session with Mercado. Isaiah Natale introduced Jillian during the event.
This marks the third consecutive year that Good Shepherd has hosted a keynote speaker for its community events.
