It is with profound sadness that we announce the loss of Prof. Giancarlo Comi, former president of the European Neurological Society (ENS), a leading figure in the neurological community, and an inspiring example to neurologists and researchers worldwide.
Among his many and outstanding contributions, from 1998 to 2000 he served as a member of the Executive Committee of the ENS; from 2000 to 2004 he was the Director of the European Neurological Society Courses; from 2006 to 2008 he was President of the ENS, and from 2012 to 2014 he was President of the Italian Society of Neurology. In the European Academy of Neurology, he has served as Chair of several Scientific Panels. He founded the Institute of Experimental Neurology at his institution, the University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, where he served as Director of the Neurological Department and Professor of Neurology.
He was the current President of the European Charcot Foundation, and the current Chair of the Human Brains Scientific Committee of the Prada Foundation.
In each of these roles, he made extraordinary contributions to the global community of neurologists and researchers, inspiring generations with his visionary leadership and dedication. Prof. Comi demonstrated unwavering commitment to patient care and to advancing research and treatments for neurological diseases, particularly multiple sclerosis. He was a pioneer in promoting early treatment of multiple sclerosis, and through his work he has greatly advanced our understanding of the disease and transformed patient care. As we grieve his loss, we also honour and celebrate his remarkable contributions to the field and the countless lives he touched with his expertise and compassion.
Moreover, as a neurologist and neuroscientist, Prof. Comi combined sharp clinical insight, empathy in teaching and caring for patients. He was an indomitable fighter in the face of adversity, a mentor, and a guide for many of us. His advice, generosity, incredible energy, tireless work, and forward-thinking vision of the future will continue to resonate for years to come, and to guide those who follow in his footsteps.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, students, and the many patients who had the privilege of benefiting from his exceptional care and dedication. He will be greatly missed by all of us.
Elena Moro, EAN President, the EAN Board, and the whole EAN Community
