Paul Calabresi, M.D. (1930-2003)

It is with much sadness that I write to you today about the death of a dear friend and esteemed colleague, Dr. Paul Calabresi. Paul died of cancer on Saturday, October 25, 2003.

Paul touched the lives of countless people through his work as a physician, scientist, teacher, and leader who worked to bring the benefits of cancer research to all patients. His myriad contributions were widely recognized during his lifetime (he was the recipient of the Oscar B. Hunter Memorial Award in Therapeutics and the American Cancer Society's St. George Medal, to name two) and they will continue to promote advances in science and patient care long into the future.

Paul was an internationally recognized medical oncologist and authority on the pharmacology of anticancer agents who was instrumental in shaping the field of modern chemotherapy. He was an insightful scientist who dedicated his research career to understanding the actions of numerous agents on cancer cells and applying this knowledge to the development of effective cancer treatments. An early proponent of combination chemotherapy, his efforts helped to change our approach to cancer treatment and dramatically improve outcomes for cancer patients. His commitment to cancer treatment research is reflected in the more than 200 manuscripts and books that he authored or edited on the pharmacology of anticancer agents and the management of cancer.

Paul also was a dedicated teacher who helped to build the future of the cancer field by training hundreds of skilled physicians and talented researchers. He was a founding member of Brown Medical School, the chairman of the Brown University Department of Medicine, and served on the faculty of the Yale University School of Medicine. The men and women he trained will carry Paul's work forward to benefit thousands more who battle cancer.

Paul was perhaps best known for his leadership roles in a wide variety of influential organizations. He served his colleagues and the cancer community as the president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the chair of the National Cancer Advisory Board, and as a member of the President's Cancer Panel, the steering committee for the National Dialogue on Cancer, and the National Cancer Legislation Advisory Committee. He also served on numerous committees and study sections of the National Cancer Institute and as a member of editorial boards of 13 journals.

The many aspects of Paul's illustrious career came together in his service as a physician. He was a skilled and compassionate doctor who was loved by his patients. He continued in this role until shortly before his death.

Paul Calabresi's many contributions have greatly advanced the treatment of cancer and improved the care available to cancer patients. We join his family in mourning his passing, but we celebrate his many contributions to our field and our nation.

Andrew C. von Eschenbach, M.D.
Director, National Cancer Institute