Dr. Bonita Sawatzky

Associate Professor & Director, READI
bonita.sawatzky@ubc.ca

I got involved because of the support and leadership I experienced from some members of this department who were champions of READI over 25 years ago.

I was a graduate student in biomechanics working in the Paediatrics Orthopaedics Division under Dr. Stephen Tredwell as a research assistant. Dr. Tredwell was instrumental in me continuing to pursue my PhD following my master’s degree. The year I was to begin my PhD, I was involved a terrible car accident that led me to needing wheelchair for daily living.

Dr. Tredwell adapted. He made it possible for me to successfully continue my studies, and he arranged a faculty position once I finished. Being a woman faculty member in all-male department was one thing—but also beginning a woman with a significant disability was something else.

His support—and the support of many others within the department, such as Drs. Richard Beauchamp, Bassam Masri, and Thomas Oxland, who have encouraged me throughout my career—has demonstrated already that inclusion is possible.

The support I received by READI champions during the past 25 years, propels me to want to be a champion for others. Sure, we have some ways to go in our department; however, some roads have already been paved. I want to help elevate our READI game within the UBC Department of Orthopaedics. And, I encourage others to do the same.