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