Dr. Joshua Yoneda Memorial Fund

Legacy through Giving

A memorial fund has been established in memory of Dr. Joshua Yoneda, who passed away on May 16, 2022, at the age of 27. Joshua's life journey exemplifies resilience, spiritual growth, community engagement, and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of truth, knowledge and discovery in the face of boundless challenge. His compassion and understanding were shaped by his father, Dr. Ross Yoneda, whose passing left a powerful impact upon their family and 15 year old Joshua. 

Joshua's legacy is reflected in his community service and generous spirit. From playing piano for seniors in long-term care and rehabilitation centres, teaching swimming, Tai Kwon Do and Aikido to children, volunteering with St. John's Ambulance, Big Brothers of Canada, contributing was integral to Joshua’s character and the consequence of his life upon others.

Embarking on his academic journey at TRU, Joshua completed his BSc. His academic journey led him to U of R, where he completed a Master's in Microbial Genetics under the supervision of Dr. A. Cameron. He graduated from the MD program from UBC.

Beyond his education and service achievements, Joshua's life was rich with personal passions. He found peace and meaning in spirituality and meditation, practices that gave him strength and clarity. But it was the time he spent with his friends that truly filled him with happiness. Whether snowboarding, hiking, playing video games and chess, watching anime and attending conventions, exploring new places, enjoying cooking and favourite foods, these moments were when Joshua was the happiest, surrounded with companionship of old and new friends, immersed in their joy and his amazing laughter.

His commitment to education is carried forward through this fund, which supports medical students and charities that align with his vision. Our goal is to keep Joshua's spirit alive by providing an annual award to a UBC medical student who seeks excellence, strives to embody these qualities, and who understands that medicine is as much about caring as it is about curing.   

Courage in Adversity

Joshua's strength, determination and spirit were evident during his final year of medical school when he was diagnosed with Grade 4 Spinal Cord Glioma. Undeterred, he faced his diagnosis with grace and incredible courage. Despite anguish of uncertainty and harrowing symptoms, Joshua continued his schooling at UBC amidst the pandemic, where he was chosen to be valedictorian by his 4th year UBCO cohort. He continued his clinical rotations in Neurology at VGH, GF Strong Rehabilitation Center, and Family Practice, seeking to understand the complexities of medical practice while ensuring empathy and kindness in his patient encounters. All the while, Joshua was fighting his own battles; his interactions with family, friends, peers, and every staff member assigned to his care, were personal and exemplary.

Beyond the realm of medicine, Joshua found meaning and purpose in his pursuit of spirituality. Joshua's exploration of a range of philosophies reflected profound introspection. His battle was not just with illness, but with the very essence of life and death. Before, during and after his cancer diagnosis, Joshua embraced spirituality and meditation - tools that gave him strength and clarity, and that he wanted to share with others. These practices were not only an escape but a way to engage more fully with life, seeking meaning and purpose in every moment. 

The Dr. Joshua Yoneda Memorial Fund is a tribute and a continuation of his quest. It supports medical students who share his empathetic spirit and aids charities that embody values he held dear. This fund ensures that Joshua’s legacy of empathy, patience, humility, courage and a deep understanding of the human condition, lives on. Joshua's memory continues to be honoured by his mother, sister, extended family and many, many friends touched by the unique connection they shared with him. 

Heartfelt gratitude to each and every person who has supported Joshua and his vision, through his life, hospitalization and now, in his absence.