President of NMP Trust, Vanderhoof Mayor Gerry Thiessen, presents award to Christine Kennedy photo courtesy UNBC

Prince George, BC –  It is impossible not to be awed by Christine Kennedy…

The former UNBC Timberwolves basketball player was named both BC Player of the Year and Academic All-Canadian by the CCAA during the 2009-2010 season.

After majoring in Psychology at UNBC, Kennedy is a now a first-year student in student in the Northern Medical Program.  At the NMP Trust’s annual fundraiser on Saturday evening, she was selected as this year’s recipient of the Rising Star of Health Service Award.

Kennedy’s exceptional accomplishments are underscored by the fact her mother died after battling cancer in 2010, leaving the young woman to raise her two sisters, aged three and 16, at the time.

It was, in part, her mother, Barbara’s, passing that fuelled her drive to become a physician.

“The potential to have a substantial impact in healthcare is very real, and my passion to learn and continue to give back to my own, and surrounding Northern communities, is a guiding force in my education,” said Kennedy in accepting the award.

“This passion will not end with a medical degree.  I am sure, in fact, this will only be the beginning.”

Kennedy said she is intent on practising as a surgeon in Prince George after she completes her medical education.