Play It Forward Memorial Pickleball Event: The Temple/St. Luke’s School of Medicine, St. Luke’s Sports Medicine, and St. Luke’s Development have announced a special event, “Play It Forward: The Dr. Trina Wijangco Memorial Scholarship Pickleball Event” set for Sunday, November 24, 2024. The event will be held at the St. Luke’s SportsPlex and Pickleball Lehigh Valley, located at 4636 Crackersport Road, Allentown. It promises a day of fun and competition, all for a noble cause. The public is invited to join the event, which includes pickleball games, free lessons, food, music, and more, with all proceeds benefiting a scholarship fund established in Dr. Trina Wijangco’s memory.
A Celebration of Dr. Trina Wijangco’s Life
Dr. Trina Wijangco’s life was marked by compassion, kindness, and a commitment to improving diversity in the medical field. She graduated from the Temple/St. Luke’s School of Medicine in 2021 and was in her residency in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital when she tragically passed away.
Dr. Trina Wijangco was a leader at Temple/St. Luke’s, co-founding the Diversity and Inclusion Taskforce, a student group aimed at supporting under-represented minority medical students. Her impact on the institution and community continues to be felt, as the task force remains active today, helping medical students from diverse backgrounds.
Event Details and Community Involvement
The “Play It Forward” pickleball event will feature competitive and social pickleball games, allowing participants of all skill levels to join in the fun. Attendees can also enjoy free pickleball lessons, pizza, and live music, and take part in a raffle for various prizes. Registration for the event is set at $20 per person, and check-in will begin at 11 a.m.
All proceeds will go towards the Trina Wijangco, MD Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund. This fund supports scholarships for students dedicated to enhancing diversity in medical education or those with a proven track record of serving underserved communities.
Continuing Dr. Wijangco’s Legacy
Dr. Trina Wijangco’s legacy is one of empowerment, inclusion, and dedication to public service. As Dr. Ike Akusoba, Director of Student Advocacy and Community Engagement at Temple/St. Luke, explains,
“Dr. Wijangco was kind, compassionate, and cared about everyone. She was such a beautiful soul and an incredible person.” – (Dr. Ike Akusoba)
The ongoing work of the Diversity and Inclusion Taskforce at Temple/St. Luke’s is a testament to her vision, which continues to inspire and affect change today.
“The biggest testament to Dr. Wijangco is that this club is still active and helping individuals from all walks of life.” – (Dr. Ike Akusoba)
“She had a vision that continues to live on today.” – (Dr. Ike Akusoba)
News in brief: Play It Forward Memorial Pickleball Event
The Play It Forward pickleball event is not only an opportunity to honor the life and work of Dr. Trina Wijangco but also a chance to contribute to a cause that reflects her commitment to diversity and inclusion in the medical field. This event promises to be a meaningful gathering that brings the community together in celebration of Dr. Trina Wijangco’s enduring legacy.
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