The Consumer Advisory Board (CAB) of the Arthritis Research Centre of Canada has created an award for recognizing the outstanding contribution of arthritis research scientists who directly involve arthritis consumers in research decision-making related to their studies.  The 2008 inaugural award recognizes the work of Dr. Catherine Backman.

Dr. Backman has and continues to champion the role of consumers as collaborators in arthritis research.   Her belief that consumers must be involved in influencing research decision-making is demonstrated by her inclusion of consumers in her research areas that encompass occupational performance and participation in life roles (parenting, employment), health & functional status, quality of life, rehabilitation intervention studies (measuring the outcome of occupational therapy & physical therapy), and the psychosocial impact of chronic illness.

The Consumer Advisory Board thanks Dr. Backman for providing comprehensive and timely guidance to consumers and for all her effort in improving the lives of people living with arthritis.