We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of our friend and colleague Jean-Claude Givel, who passed away suddenly on Sunday 23 August 2015. We send our condolences to his family and friends. Jean-Claude was very highly regarded by those of us in ESCP that knew him, and we feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work and spend time with him.
Jean-Claude was a founding member and loyal supporter of the Society, and a Trustee in recent years, becoming actively involved in creating ESCP’s first full risk register along with fellow Trustees Mike Parker and Werner Hohenberger; this represented a significant commitment to the Society both in terms of time, but also knowledge and insight.
A keen skier Jean-Claude was co-founder along with Neil Mortensen of the Alpine Colorectal Meeting which celebrated its 15th anniversary this year. He was also a founding member of the UEMS Division of Coloproctology EBSQ in 1998, and a keen participant in the goal to open up learning opportunities across the Specialty in Europe and beyond.
He served on many other society Boards and Councils, including the International Surgical Society, the British Journal of Surgery, and the American College of Surgeons, and he had been a former President of the Swiss Surgical Society.
But he also had as many interests in the arts, including having been President of Bejart Ballet, President of the Cully Music Festival, and the President of the Association of collectors of the Swiss impressionist artist Borgeaud.
Most of all he enjoyed helping the careers of young surgeons and artists. He will be greatly missed.
