Dear ICFOG Members,
The International Consortium for Freezing of Gait is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Mark Hallett MD, a towering and magnanimous figure in Neurology whose wisdom, measured counsel and kind leadership transformed the study of movement disorders. In particular, we would like to highlight his early and enduring support for the field of freezing where his contributions to our early meetings were critical to the organisation that we can enjoy today. Whilst he will clearly be remembered for his high-level contributions to science, his influence extended far beyond the laboratory and many of us will have benefitted from his support, wisdom and sage advice as he helped build our international collaborations and strengthened our community of clinicians, academics and students.
Many of us will fondly recall his calm, diplomatic voice in complex debates and his excellence in synthesizing its main points. He was a unifier who listened before speaking; a mentor who built teams rather than empires. He will be deeply missed by his many mentees, his collaborators and the many patients whose lives he touched. In his absence, his humility, intellectual generosity and spirit of unity will remain an inspiration for all who follow his path.
As a consortium, we wish to express our deepest sympathy for his family and loved ones.
Sincerely,
ICFOG