It is with great sadness that I post this message. The recent tragic plane crash in Papua New Guinea claimed the lives of thirteen people, one of them being Dr June Canavan from the Sunshine Coast.
Dr Canavan (June) was my doctor since the late 90’s and the lady responsible for getting me back on my feet on many occasions. In 1998 I sufferred a severe back injusy which left me largely incapacitated. After seeing many doctors and specialist surgeons who all told me there was nothing they could do except operate. It was June that organised for my MRI which uncovered the herniated discs in my lower back.
June along with Paula (my physio) spent a week on me initially to get me back walking properly not to mention being able to go to the toilet without the help of my wife, Dee. June continued to help me make a recovery which has allowed me to train through to 6th degree black belt, BJJ blue belt and it was her inspirational outlook which allowed me to re-invent myself as a school teacher.
June assisted in my knee reconstruction when I totally wrecked it and along with Paula helped with my recovery. She has been there through all of my major health issues not to mention improving my fathers 30+ yr old chronic back injury.
This lady was respected by all that came into contact with her. However it wasn’t the many Olympic and other professioonal athletes that looked to her for answers that made me respect her. It was the help that she offered everyone regardless of who they were.
June you are and always will be a shining example of how to live your life, how to treat people. I thank you from the bottom of my heart and wish you were still here with us. Although my heart feels heavy I will continue to drain every last drop out of life just as you did.
Brad Ross
Kyoshi, Rokudan
State Head Instructor
Bob Jones Martial Arts
BJMA EAST COAST 