RJ Roggeveen, a medical student at Dalhousie University in Halifax, is breaking barriers in the medical field by being the first student in the program to navigate medical school and surgical training using a standing wheelchair. Despite facing challenges after losing most of his ability to walk following an incident, Roggeveen pursued his dream of becoming a doctor through the Indigenous admissions pathways at the university. He was supported in his application to the program and was ultimately accepted, making history as the first student in a wheelchair to be admitted to the program.
Throughout his time in the program, Roggeveen has worked to implement new ways to address accessibility needs for medical professionals studying in the field. He has helped make changes to ensure that the program is inclusive and accessible for students with disabilities. Roggeveen’s use of a standing power chair has enabled him to participate in surgeries by raising his chair to the height of the operating table, providing him with full mobility and flexibility needed for these procedures. He recently achieved a milestone by completing the first surgery in a standing wheelchair, demonstrating the success of the adaptations made to accommodate his needs.
Faculty members at Dalhousie, including assistant professor and surgeon Samuel Jessula, have praised Roggeveen’s efforts and adaptability in navigating medical school and surgical training in a wheelchair. Jessula worked with Roggeveen on making the program more accessible long-term, ensuring that he could fully participate in operations as a medical student. Roggeveen’s achievements are not only significant for his personal journey but also for paving the way for future medical students with disabilities. His success has prompted the university to reconsider how to make their program more inclusive, from designing classrooms to clinical placements.
Roggeveen’s determination and accomplishments have inspired a new generation of health-care professionals and are setting an example for other institutions across Canada to create more inclusive and accessible programs for students with disabilities. By showcasing that being in a wheelchair should not limit one’s ability to pursue a career in medicine, Roggeveen is advocating for equal opportunities and representation in the field. His groundbreaking work in the medical field, including completing surgeries in a standing wheelchair, highlights the importance of creating an environment that accommodates diverse needs and promotes inclusivity in the healthcare profession.
As Roggeveen continues his education and works towards completing his medical training, he hopes that his journey can serve as a model for other institutions to follow. He envisions a future where programs are already equipped with the necessary adaptations to support students with disabilities, eliminating barriers to entry and ensuring that all aspiring medical professionals have equal opportunities for success. By pushing boundaries and making strides in accessibility in medicine, Roggeveen is not only achieving his own dreams but also opening doors for future generations of healthcare professionals who may have disabilities. His impact on the field of medicine goes beyond his personal achievements, as he is creating lasting change and advocating for a more inclusive and diverse healthcare system.
