Dr. Chester Ho — Recipient of the 2023 Chinese Canadian Legend Award

Joining Dr. Ho in the photo are Keith and Alexa Tam, David Tam (UHF Trustee), Dr. Ho (LEGEND) and Dr. Ho’s parents.

On July 29, Dr. Chester Ho joined five other outstanding Chinese Canadians in Toronto to receive the 2023 Chinese Canadian Legend Award. "The award itself has become one of the most prestigious, influential and distinct awards in the Chinese community,” said Bammy Wong, Chinese Canadian Legends Association (CCLA) President. “CCLA’s mission is to promote and recognize the achievements and contributions of Chinese Canadians, to foster understanding, respect and integration of multiculturalism in Canada.”

Organizing Committee Co-chair Alexandra Ngan said the life stories of this year’s recipients are all unique but equally brilliant. “They not only rise above challenges in face of adversity, but also cherish and share their blessings with others. Their outstanding achievements and generous contributions to society serve as great motivation and inspiration to the community.”

Dr. Chester H. Ho was born in Hong Kong. After graduating from medical school at Cambridge University, he completed his residency and spinal cord injury specialty training in the United States. He then joined Cleveland Clinic where he later became the Chief of Spinal Cord Injury. To be closer to his parents, Dr. Ho came to Canada in 2011 and became the Division Head of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Calgary, and later at the University of Alberta. He also led policy development with federal and provincial health services. As a leading expert in the field of spinal cord injury rehabilitation, Dr. Ho has a patient-centred approach to care, maintains a humble, compassionate outlook and leads his team to continuously create miracles for spinal cord injury patients in Canada.

To learn more about the CCLA award and other recipients.