Program: Vancouver-Fraser Medical Program
All my known ancestors are from the Secwépemc First Nation. I am proud to have been raised in Skeetchestn, a rural Indigenous reservation. I attribute a significant part of my journey towards Emergency Medicine (EM) to my unique upbringing, the place I come from, and its people. Being the first in my family to pursue post-secondary studies was non-trivial to me, and required me to develop a great deal of independence and self-confidence. I attribute my resiliency not only from the barriers I have overcome, but more importantly, in the strength rooted through a trans-generational connection to my ancestors.
I am particularly moved by my Kyé7e (Grandmother) Christine Simon. As a residential school survivor it goes without saying that she has suffered immensely at the hands of the education system. Despite this, after leaving the residential school she attempted to get a basic high school education but was denied admission because of her identity as an Indigenous person. I recognize my privilege in my education journey and dedicate this degree and my future career to my Kyé7e.
I look forward to being the first point of contact in the health care system to a diverse group of peoples and working to ensure equitable health care is achieved. I am inspired by EM physicians because the speciality demands a breadth of knowledge during critical presentations while also demonstrating strong leadership. I am excited at the prospect of bringing a personal connection to Indigenous and rural health, which I know will strongly contribute to the advancement of EM. I intend to be a specialized leader within quality improvement to collectively improve the standard of care for all patients, including Indigenous peoples.
Driving straight to IHOP post 24 hour call for some cupcake pancakes. Beyond that, I have met some of my best friends in my graduating cohort. There have been many favourite moments and good laughs with these folks, some of them perhaps better then cupcake pancakes, but too many to mention here.
Watch some Dr. Glaucomflecken videos for some comedic relief during the tough times and sign up for the physician resource UpToDate ASAP.
This July my partner and I will be moving to Calgary as I will be starting an EM residency. I could not be happier or more excited for this transition. Oh and one other thing, I will be adopting a dog this year!