It is with great regret and sadness that we let you know that Gerard Beerthuizen, one of the former presidents of the EBA, passed away on October 19, 2023, at the age of 67.
Gerard was trained as a general surgeon and was a burn professional in heart, for whom the patient always came first. He was aware of the importance of the multidisciplinary team and over the years has built up an excellent team in his burn center in Groningen. He was also internationally active and he joined the executive board of the European Burns Association. He played a key role in ensuring that the EBA would become a professional organization. As president of the EBA, he developed and implemented the European guidelines for the treatment of burns and (co-)initiated the Verification program of burn centres.
In addition, with his scientific research and many lectures, he has made an important contribution to the education and training of students, surgical assistants, and other healthcare professionals.
He will be remembered as a man who was an international pioneer with a passion for burns, a passion for teamwork with compassion for his patients.
Our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones, to whom we convey our sincere condolences.
