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Remembering Dr. Allen C. Crocker
1925 - 2011  


Dr. Crocker with Child

 
"He's a man that challenges all of us
to dream bigger dreams and
to hope bigger hopes."

-Brian Skotko, MD, MPP (2008)  
 
  
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Related Links:

Dr. Crocker reviews 50 years of progress for serving people with disabilities,



In 1994, the MDSC established the Allen C. Crocker Award of Excellence in recognition of his many years of nurturing individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout their life's journey.To view past recipients
click here.

Dr. Crocker with Sarah & Angela
Dr. Crocker with Award Recipients Sarah Cullen and Angela Lombardo
 


Historical Perspective,

In his own words, Allen C. Crocker, MD - Children's News, March 2006


 



























































































MDSC Members,

For several months now, many of you have been sending your well wishes to our dear friend and mentor, Dr. Allen C. Crocker. This brought him great comfort and joy knowing how much the MDSC community loved him.

 

We are deeply saddened to share with you that he passed away yesterday at the age of 85. He was surrounded by his family who spent time by his side during these final days. Dr. Crocker touched the lives of our families and self-advocates in so many ways and we know that you will join us in remembering this man who gave so much of himself to make a difference in the lives of others on the most personal level.

 

Dr. Crocker will be remembered as a legend in the field of developmental pediatrics. His commitment to advancing the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and changing societal perceptions is unrivaled.

 

"Dr. Crocker left a legacy of hope, inspiration, and love for all individuals living with Down syndrome.  Our community is forever changed by his lifelong work to promote the acceptance and inclusion of all people with Down syndrome.  He will be deeply missed by all of us at the MDSC."  

 

- Maureen Gallagher, Executive Director  

 

Please enjoy this tribute video from the MDSC's 25th Anniversary celebration where we paid tribute to Dr. Crocker with a lifetime achievement award.  

 

A Tribute to Dr. Allen C. Crocker
Tribute to Dr. Allen C. Crocker at
MDSC 25th Anniversary Celebration (2008)

 

Dr. Crocker was a remarkable warm human being whose demeanor and kindness gave critical support to families who truly needed it. His work will live on within the MDSC through our continued dedication to ensuring that all individuals living with Down syndrome are valued, included, and given opportunities to lead meaningful lives in the community.

 

"Allen left permanent footprints in the lives of everyone who has a child with Down syndrome. He found exceptionality in every human being, and he taught us all how to love without exception. He taught me personally that physicians need to do much more than provide medical care; we need to help families find hope, courage, and, as he would say it, good cheer. His lessons will be with me forever."

 

-Brian Skotko, MD, MPP 

 

More information about memorial services, tributes and remembrances for Dr. Allen Crocker will be forthcoming.

 

Warm Regards,

 

Maureen Gallagher

Executive Director

 

Dr. Crocker at Open House

Dr. Crocker with Regina and Josiah Robinson at the MDSC Open House in June 2011. We're so happy he was able to celebrate this milestone with us!

Poem

Delivered by Dr. Allen C. Crocker in his acceptance speech of the MDSC Lifetime Achievement Award  

 

Warm, gentle smiles

Continuous reaching for music and dance

The way government can be a pathway to secure human rights

The passion felt when a curriculum is a good one

Hypotonia and joints that go every which way

Brotherhood and sisterhood in the family and in the neighborhood

Discovery of the breadth of accessible supports

Changes in our definition of winning and of values

Pride in small unexpected achievements

The many ways in which the tongue can be used

Enhancement of parenthood, especially fathers

The honoring of difference

Being needed

How the assignment continues on and on

Hearing stories having to do with angels

Being sentimental about hugging

The motto for Special Olympics

Surgery on very little babies (don't try at home)

The wonder of self-talk

State and national conferences and focus groups

Barney

Love

 

Crocker with Girl 2  

 

Dr. Crocker, you'll remain in our hearts forever! 

 


 

Our Mission
 
The MDSC strives to ensure people with Down syndrome in Massachusetts are valued, included, and given opportunities to pursue fulfilling lives by providing information, networking opportunities, and advocacy for people with Down syndrome, their families, educators, health care professionals, and the community-at-large.
 
Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress 
20 Burlington Mall Rd - Suite 261
Burlington, MA 01803
781-221-0024

www.mdsc.org