Dr Tracy Pickett, 1968–2023

On the 1-year anniversary of Dr Tracy Pickett’s passing, we would like to take a moment to remember our dear colleague, mentor, and friend. Tracy passed away 27 September 2023.

A deeply dedicated physician, Tracy began her career in medicine in 1995 and became a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in 2000. In the course of her work as an emergency physician at Vancouver General, St. Paul’s, and BC Children’s Hospitals, she became interested in the practice of clinical forensic medicine.

Through her pursuit of this passion, she earned a master of forensic medicine and the prestigious Sir John Monash Medal for excellence in graduate and postgraduate coursework study. Following this, she was granted a prestigious fellowship with the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia in 2015 that led to her becoming the only physician in North America to hold both an academic degree and a fellowship in clinical forensic medicine. She was a trailblazer in every sense of the word.

As a clinical professor, Tracy was a regarded leader, mentor, and educator in the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Medicine for over 20 years, lecturing around the world on gender-based violence, trauma, and forensic medicine to diverse groups ranging from elementary school children to the judiciary and academics, and authoring journal articles, webinars, and online modules.

A strong advocate for education and reform, Tracy used her expertise in both medicine and forensics to support education and outreach in community service agencies and educational institutions across the province and the country. Most notably, she was included in the list of experts at the International Criminal Court and gave expert testimony to courts in Canada and internationally.

Tracy’s many contributions, coupled with her empathy and compassion, impacted countless Canadians and effected systemic change locally, nationally, and internationally. Her legacy as a pillar in the forensic community, a leader in social justice, and a passionate advocate for patients will endure.

We also knew Tracy as a devoted mother and partner, athlete, and lover of animals. Her unique humor, humble presence, and insatiable curiosity had a remarkable ability to brighten any room.

We will remember Tracy not only for her professional achievements, but also for the kindness and warmth she shared with everyone she met. And we will honor her and her memory by embodying the same compassion and dedication in our work, now and in the future.

Thank you, Tracy, for everything you’ve given us. You continue to be a cherished part of our hearts and our work.
—BC Women’s Hospital Sexual Assault Service team

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