Fox medal winner spirited by drive

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Marianne Meadahl, PAMR, 604.291.4323

Determination, a little technical help, and a refusal to give in underlie the academic success — and personal achievement — of biology student Jocelyn Tomkinson, SFU’s 2006 Terry Fox gold medal recipient.

Tomkinson was born with a tumor on her spinal cord that prevented her spine from developing properly. Numerous surgeries throughout her life caused a buildup of scar tissue and inflammation - and eventually led to an incurable pain condition. The active wheelchair athlete was forced to withdraw from school to deal with debilitating chronic pain.

But thanks to some recent surgery and a lot of perseverance, Tomkinson returned to school a year after pain first interrupted her studies. An implanted biomedical device pumps a regular stream of medication that makes it possible for her to function despite her condition. "Pain is still a daily reality for me," concedes Tomkinson, "but as soon as the pump worked I didn't look back.”

Tomkinson, who resides in Burnaby, completed her bachelor’s degree last semester and begins her master of global health program as a part of the faculty of health science's first cohort this January. She eventually wants to help improve life for the chronically ill in developing countries.

The Terry Fox gold medal award is given to an individual who shows courage in adversity and dedication to society, qualities exemplified by Terry Fox. Tomkinson will receive her award during SFU's Terry Fox Day on Thursday, Sept. 21, at a ceremony in convocation mall at 11:40 a.m. The campus community’s run/walk will follow.

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Digital photo of Tomkinson is available