Remembering Mark Gignac, ND, FABNO
Remembering Mark Gignac, ND, FABNO
Remembering Mark Gignac, ND, FABNO
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we share the tragic news of the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Mark Gignac, ND, FABNO. Mark passed suddenly from a heart attack on September 20th, 2018. Words cannot describe the magnitude of such a loss to our profession and to the OncANP family. We are incredibly grateful and forever in debt for Mark’s selfless and generous contributions to advancing the field of naturopathic oncology.
In a written testimony, Paul Reilly ND, FABNO very eloquently captures Mark’s impact as a pioneer, teacher, and mentor in our profession:
“One of Mark’s amazing gifts was the ability to blend a deep understanding of biochemistry and physiology with an equally deep understanding of mind-body medicine. He frequently taught us new ways of looking at cases and ways to use the tools of naturopathic medicine to better help our patients. His well thought out and in-depth explanations of cases and problems at oncology conferences and study groups left all of us with a lasting impression of brilliance and a desire to learn just a bit of what he knew in order to help our own patients….Mark was a lifelong learner and could quote research and philosophy with equal facility. His compassion and understanding led him to be loved by friends, co-workers, and patients equally. I am glad to have known Mark, called him a friend and will miss him dearly.”
Paul Anderson, ND posted a statement about Mark on Facebook:
“My colleague Dr. Mark Gignac passed away. He was one of the most insightful doctors I ever encountered. He and I were together just a day before he collapsed. We were attending an oncology think tank. I will miss Mark and his reasoned insights and thoughts about cancer care (which he devoted his professional life to) and mostly who he was as a human.”
The following is an excerpt from a post by Neil McKinney, ND:
“Mark really lived the John Bastyr principles of scientific naturopathy. He embodied the best characteristics of that noble title, physician. He was compassionate and smart and all sorts of things I admire, but it was always his passion for the unique and vital naturopathic perspective in medicine that made me revere him. I cannot think of anyone who kept so true to being a naturopathic physician and a naturopathic oncologist.”
We would like to express our deepest condolences to Mark’s family and loved ones, and to all of those in our profession who knew Mark and were touched by his spirit and passion for naturopathic medicine.
As one of the immediate ways to honor Mark’s memory, we encourage you to share any thoughts, experiences, stories and/or quotes in remembrance of Mark in the comment section below. Additionally, if you have any photos to share please send these to our Exec Director, Corey Murphy at oncanp@gmail.com
