A Surrey student who has committed to continuing his education, despite facing health challenges, has been awarded a scholarship to help ease the financial burden of his post-secondary pursuits.
Coast Capital’s Beth Hutchinson Award, worth $5,000, was named after a girl who lost her battle with brain cancer. The money is given to students across B.C. in her memory.
This year’s recipient is Jovun Gill, who recently graduated from Fleetwood Park Secondary.
“My experiences have taught me that life comes with its challenges but we will find light if we persevere,” Gill said in a press release.
While he was still in high school, Gill was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, which is a disease that causes inflammation and ulcers on the inner lining of their large intestine, due to abnormal reactions in the immune system.
“Throughout his journey, Jovun persevered through extensive treatments and demonstrated incredible strength to excel in his academics,” the release notes.
Gill now has his sights set on obtaining a biological sciences degree at the University of British Columbia, and plans to use his tough experience for something larger.
His career goal is to work in medicine and one day find a cure to ulcerative colitis so that no other child will have to go through the same experience.
“This award will not only help to ease the financial strain of post-secondary education, but inspires me to continue to believe in myself as I work towards my goal of becoming a doctor,” Gill said.
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