#139 - Caden Skelton - Find Out How He Saves Lives by Dancing

Caden Skelton is a misunderstood soul whose life has been shaped by pain, perseverance, and purpose. Having battled suicidal thoughts since childhood and been constantly misunderstood by society, Caden has turned his struggle into strength. Now a local icon in Sherwood Park, he’s known for dancing with a helmet on—a symbol of both protection and identity. Through this unique and expressive art form, Caden brings light to others, especially children and strangers who find joy, hope, and even healing through his presence. Today, we dive deeper into his journey and explore how dancing, mental health, and skateboarding have become pillars of his identity and resilience.

For Caden, dancing isn’t just movement—it’s an extension of his soul. What began on a longboard after a head injury evolved into a public act of freedom, defiance, and self-expression. The helmet he wears isn't just a safety measure; it’s a statement—a marker of who he is and what he represents. Each performance is layered with emotion: a fight against stigma, a message to his younger self, and an open invitation for others to embrace their individuality. Despite facing hostility, Caden continues to dance for the smiles of children and the lives he's touched, including those he's unknowingly pulled back from the edge of despair. His dance is not for applause—it’s for connection, survival, and purpose.

Caden's mental health journey is deeply personal and painfully real. Having attempted suicide as early as grade 3, his strength today is built on the wisdom of his grandfather and a relentless refusal to give up. Being in the public eye while battling his own inner storms isn’t easy, but Caden copes by staying true to himself, setting firm boundaries, and supporting those who share his values. He challenges society to look deeper—to understand that people carry unseen pain, layered beneath diagnoses and misunderstandings. He advocates for compassion and awareness, reminding us all that beneath the surface, there is always more to a person than what we see.

To Caden, skateboarding—especially longboarding—is liberation. It’s his form of flight, a break from the gravity of life's burdens. It brings peace, focus, and a sense of control that helps him combat anger, anxiety, and depression. More than a hobby, it’s been a tool for self-growth and a way to build genuine human connection. From teaching others to ride to advocating for a community skate space in Sherwood Park, Caden uses skateboarding not only as personal therapy but as a force for building bridges. For him, every fall is a lesson, and every ride is a reminder to keep moving forward.

Caden Skelton’s story is one of raw humanity, courage, and transformation. From dancing with a helmet to skating through emotional chaos, he has turned his pain into purpose and his struggles into service. Whether through movement, conversation, or community-building, Caden is a living testament that being different isn’t a weakness—it’s a gift. His life reminds us that behind every outlier is a powerful story worth hearing, and behind every act of self-expression lies a truth that could save a life.

KEEP IT LONG TERM!