IAPC Joins the World in Mourning the Loss of Dr. Balfour Mount

The Indian Association of Palliative Care (IAPC) joins the world in mourning the loss of Dr. Balfour Mount; a true pioneer and the “Father Of Palliative Care“.

In January 1973, Dr. Mount, a urologic-cancer surgeon, was influenced by a discussion group of Elisabeth Kubler-Ross’ book On Death and Dying to lead a study of the conditions at Montreal’s Royal Victoria Hospital. After visiting Dr Cicely Saunders’ St. Christopher’s Hospice in 1975, he helped to create a similar ward within the Royal Victoria Hospital. Thereafter, in 1975, he launched the world’s first Palliative Care Unit in Montreal, a groundbreaking initiative that set the global standard for care. The etymology of the word was perfect. Thus, he is credited with coining the term ‘Palliative Care’ to define a novel approach blending hospice, thanatology, and academic medicine, which revolutionized the management of life-limiting illness.

We honour his vision of “Total Care” which emphasizes addressing the physical, psychosocial, existential, and spiritual needs of patients and families. This philosophy continues to shape and inspire every aspect of Palliative Care across India.

We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, family, colleagues, friends, and all those grieving this immense loss.

Read more: https://www.mcgill.ca/palliativecare/about/portraits/balfour-mount