Canada Winter Games Torch Relay

This Daily Doodle marks an exciting moment in my life that I am so honored to be a part of – The Canada Winter Games Torch Relay 2015. Several years ago, I participated in the Canada Winter Games in Newfoundland in the sport of Judo. It was one of my first “big” tournaments and I remember being so excited and nervous at the same time! I won bronze at Canada Winter Games and a couple years later, I became the National Judo Champion. Judo was and still is one of my many passions. Unfortunately, after being diagnosed with a rare disease affecting my left leg, I had to retire as a competitive athlete. But, I still participate in Judo through helping others and volunteering. My fiance and I are proud members of the Prince George Judo Club.

After being selected as one of the torchbearers for the Canada Winter Games Torch Relay, my friend sent me an email with the words that she wrote to support my nomination:

 

“Michiko was of my medical school colleagues. She has been an inspiration to our class in many ways…She is a remarkable young women who has faced her cancer diagnosis with resiliency and courage, never feeling sorry for herself and allowing us to be part of her journey in recovery. She is a talented artist and has done much for the local community as well as the medical community at large, promoting art in medicine. If that isn’t enough, as a teenager she competed in Judo and was the junior national champion. I truly believe Michiko would be a valued addition to torchcarrying team, encompassing, inspiration, leadership and athleticism.”

 

Thank you Dr. Rachel DJ for all your support and encouragement throughout medical school and beyond. Your words of support meant so much to me and I am so blessed to surrounded by wonderful people like you!

Thank you to all my family and friends and to the UBC and NMP faculty.

3 thoughts on “Canada Winter Games Torch Relay

  1. Greig Rasmussen on

    Congratulations on another well-deserved honour, Michiko.

    Cheers,

    Greig Rasmussen

  2. Michiko Maruyama on

    Thank you so much! It was an incredible experience and it is so exciting to see all the athletes around town. It brings back many memories of my Canada Winter Games experience years ago 🙂

Leave a Reply