Professor Emeritus Chang-il Park Honored by ISPRM

 

-First Asian to Receive ‘Herman Flax Award’

 

On June 1, Yonsei College of Medicine Professor Emeritus Chang-il Park received the Herman Flax Award at the International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (ISPRM) World Congress, which was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The award recognizes the lifetime achievements of an individual who has significantly contributed to the development of rehabilitation medicine. Professor Park is the first Asian scholar to win the award.

 

Professor Park is also the first Asian to be named president of ISPRM, a post he held from 2006 to 2008. In 2007, he organized and directed the group’s international symposium, which was held in Seoul. Throughout his distinguished career, Professor Park has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about disabilities and eliminate discrimination against disabled individuals. Since the 1980s, he has been involved with the Special Olympics, serving as vice-chairperson of the Asian Paralympic Committee.

 

 

 

Future Plans to Improve Rehabilitation Medicine in Middle East and Asia

 

On receiving his award, Professor Park said: “As a professor at Yonsei University, I devoted my entire life to improving life for disabled and handicapped individuals and to improving the field of rehabilitation medicine. This award recognizes my life’s endeavors. I am grateful to Yonsei University, and I will continue to work to better the lives of disabled individuals all over the world. For a better world for everyone.” The ISPRM also awarded Professor Park the title of “Ambassador for the Improvement of Rehabilitation Medicine in the Middle East and Asia.” Professor Park looks forward to continuing his work of improving rehabilitation medicine and combatting prejudices in other countries.