Dr Donna MacIntyre and Dr Roger Francis Cancer Research in Physical Therapy Fund

Excerpt from the UBC Department of Physical Therapy:

We are thrilled to announce a transformative gift to the Department of Physical Therapy, generously donated by UBC Associate Professor Emeritus Dr Donna MacIntyre, along with her loving partner of 45 years, Dr Roger Francis, who passed away in October 2023.

This generous contribution will establish The Dr Donna MacIntyre and Dr Roger Francis Cancer Research in Physical Therapy Fund, a new fund dedicated to advancing the department’s mission and supporting future growth.

Over the next six years, the fund will support Physical Therapy research in cancer treatment rehabilitation. Survivors of aggressive forms of cancer face unique challenges in recovery, including physical limitations that require a deeper understanding of preventative interventions. Dr MacIntyre’s vision to support the development of innovative therapeutic approaches aligns with Dr Kristin Campbell’s research in advancing the understanding of activities in physical therapy that support post-treatment recovery. A key goal of the research is to establish translational applications across multiple cancers.

Dr. MacIntyre’s and Dr. Francis’ gift is a testament to their commitment to the field of physical therapy and Donna’s desire to honor Roger’s legacy. The establishment of The Dr Donna MacIntyre and Dr Roger Francis Cancer Research in Physical Therapy Fund is expected to shape the approach to physical therapy cancer education, treatment and care.

The University of British Columbia, the Faculty of Medicine, and the Department of Physical Therapy all extend our deepest gratitude to Donna and Roger for their generosity and vision in creating a fund that will benefit so many.

(Source: The University of British Columbia, Department of Physical Therapy. Published March 6, 2025. Retrieved from https://physicaltherapy.med.ubc.ca/2025/03/06/dr-donna-macintyre-and-dr-roger-francis-cancer-research-in-physical-therapy-fund/)