With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Dominique Vervoort, a brilliant and compassionate cardiothoracic surgeon, visionary, and advocate, whose impact extended far beyond his years. Dominique passed away after a long and courageous battle with melanoma at the age of 31, leaving an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and the global healthcare community.
Dominique was a PhD candidate in Health Systems Research and a Vanier Scholar at the Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation at the University of Toronto. His doctoral work, which focused on disparities in the care of thoracic aortic disease, reflected his deep commitment to advancing equity in healthcare. Dominique’s work was defined by his passion for addressing inequalities in healthcare systems, his dedication to improving patient care, and his unyielding drive for positive change.
In addition to his academic excellence, Dominique was a passionate advocate for global surgery and public health. He was a co-founder of InciSioN, an international medical student-led organization aimed at improving surgical care globally. He played a crucial role in the registration of the NGO in Belgium and contributed significantly to the InciSioN-led World Bank report, working alongside esteemed institutions like the World Health Organization, King’s College London, and Stanford University. His vision for safer surgical and anesthesia care for all, everywhere, was one that inspired and motivated those around him.
Dominique’s tireless efforts extended to his work as a social media ambassador for the EACTS Annual Meeting and various other initiatives, where he generously donated his time to amplify scientific dialogue, live-tweet sessions, and extend the reach of crucial global healthcare discussions.
His remarkable contributions to the field of global surgery and health policy were matched only by his warmth, kindness, and generosity of spirit. His mentorship to peers and students, his tireless dedication to health equity, and his leadership in the global surgery community will leave a lasting legacy.
Dominique’s passing is a tremendous loss to the medical and global health community, and to all who were fortunate to know him. His influence and passion will continue to inspire those who carry on his work and his mission for a fairer, more equitable world.
To Dominique’s family, friends, colleagues, and all those who were touched by his extraordinary spirit, we extend our deepest sympathies. His memory will live on in the countless lives he impacted through his work, his kindness, and his unwavering pursuit of justice in healthcare.
Rest in peace, Dominique. Your legacy lives on in the many hearts you touched, and your vision will continue to guide us. You will be deeply missed, and your impact will never be forgotten.