UBC physiotherapist Dr Janice Eng is the recipient of the 2009 Dr Jonas Salk Award, which annually recognizes Canadian scientists who have made new or significant contributions to science or medicine in alleviating or preventing a disabling condition.

Her most recent work, the Graded Repetitive Arm Supplementary Program (GRASP), was developed with her former student Jocelyn Harris and showcased on CTV earlier this year. GRASP, now widely used, has proven to increase the ability to use stroke-affected arms and also reduce depressive symptoms.

The award, co-sponsored by Sanofi Pasteur, includes a personal financial tribute of $10,000 in recognition of the recipient’s achievement.

Eng is internationally recognized for developing treatments to assist people with disabilities and her work has helped thousands of people with strokes, Parkinson’s Disease and chronic conditions in over 75 locations around the world including BC, Ontario, Australia, Iceland, Hong Kong, Taipei and Chicago.

—Sarah Chung