In Memory of Dr. Robert J. Ginsberg

We are saddened by the loss of Dr. Robert J. Ginsberg, of Toronto, Canada, who recently died of lung cancer. Dr. Ginsberg, a renowned thoracic surgeon who perfected some of the techniques used in lung cancer surgery, was also a former Chair of our Board of Directors (see tribute by Board member Dr. Bill Evans). He was a strong, effective leader who had a clear commitment to the work we do. He was unfailingly supportive and willing to respond by email or telephone to whatever inquiries we made of him. At oncology conferences, where he summarized current and emerging surgical treatment of lung cancer, he was always available to talk informally about his presentations.

Joining ALCASE's Board was Dr. Ginsberg's first experience of being closely involved with a national non-profit organization. He first learned about ALCASE at the 8th World Conference on Lung Cancer conference in Dublin, Ireland in August 1997. " Usually, a groundswell of patients stimulate the formation and effectiveness of advocacy groups," he said in an interview for the Summer 2000 issue of our newsletter, Spirit and Breath. "However, many patients with lung cancer are blamed for the disease and feel shame. They don't organize so openly. That, and the lack of celebrity involvement, is a challenge. I was impressed that ALCASE even existed--it has a vital role to play."

In the interview, Dr. Ginsberg also reflected that in caring for patients, more attention was being given to pain management and post-operative care than when he began his career. He had great interest in the challenges of early detection and how to treat people who have very small tumors. He predicted that some of the newer drugs and a growing understanding of cancer genetics might significantly improve the management of lung cancer. And he pointed out the need for more funding for peer-reviewed lung cancer research.

Though an incredibly busy surgeon and Board Chair, Dr. Ginsberg was also charming and willing to help ALCASE in unexpected ways. During our benefit event in New York City in Fall 2000, the television broadcaster who had agreed to host the evening failed to show up, Dr. Ginsberg steeped in as a witty and gracious Master of Ceremonies.

We will miss Dr. Ginsberg. Your memorial contributions are welcome. ALCASE will honor his memory with an appropriate tribute to his accomplishments.