It is with profound sadness that ECCO mourns the passing of Prof. Brian Feagan, a towering figure in the field of inflammatory bowel diseases and an irreplaceable member of our community. His loss is deeply felt across the entire ECCO family, where he was not only admired for his scientific brilliance but cherished for his generosity and unwavering commitment to advancing patient care.
For ECCO and for the global IBD community, Brian represented a cornerstone of progress. His work transformed the way we design and evaluate treatments, elevating the standards of clinical research and clinical care in IBD. His insights shaped countless ECCO guidelines, scientific discussions, and educational programmes, leaving a legacy that will continue to influence our field for decades to come.
Brian was also a mentor to nearly all of us. Many ECCO members built their careers under his guidance, benefitted from his careful critique, or were inspired by his clarity of thought, intellectual rigor, and dedication to excellence.
Over the years, his contributions to ECCO have been remarkable, delivering numerous lectures at ECCO congresses, workshops, and educational activities, always bringing rigor, depth, and vision. He played an essential role in strengthening our mission to improve care for patients living with IBD.
ECCO extends its deepest condolences to Dr Brian Feagan’s family, friends, colleagues, and to all who had the privilege of working with him. His legacy will forever remain part of IBD, and his impact will continue to guide and inspire our community for many years to come.
Fernando Magro
President, European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation