Michael Dawson, B. Pharm. (Hon), Ph.D. (1954–2010)

 

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Assoc. Prof. Michael Dawson, B. Pharm. (Hon), Ph.D. (1954–2010)

I would like to dedicate this issue of Seminars in Thrombosis and Hemostasis to the memory of my wife's brother, Michael Dawson, who passed away in December 2010 from bleeding complications and multiple organ failure resulting from a very aggressive hematologic tumor. Michael leaves a wife, Bronwyn, twin girls, Chloe and Kathleen, not quite 2 years of age, a sister (Beryl), a brother (Gary), his mother (Claire) and father (William), various nephews, nieces, uncles and aunts, and a plethora of friends and colleagues.

Although Michael did not have any direct affiliation with this journal, life's journey involves many events and relationships that ultimately lead us to the place that we occupy within this universe. Michael was born in 1954, went to school in New South Wales country schools, and achieved his first degree, a bachelor of pharmacy with honors (B. Pharm., Hon) in the 1980s, and his postgraduate doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.), also within the field of pharmacy, soon after. He earned both degrees at the University of Sydney. It is perhaps historically significant that my wife and I, also graduates of the same university, were also studying there at around that time.

Michael only worked for a short time as a pharmacist before returning to academia as a researcher. It was clear to Michael early on in his professional life that enduring life as a retail pharmacist held no interest to him. In 1991 he was appointed as a lecturer in analytical and environmental chemistry at the Sydney University of Technology (UTS), and it was there that he remained until his death. As recognized in a tribute from the university,[1] Michael had a strong interest in applied chemistry and also recognized the potential for the UTS Faculty of Science to expand and add forensic science to its degree program. A research trip to the United Kingdom and Switzerland led to his instrumental role in paving the way for an undergraduate forensic science degree at UTS in 1994, the only one in Australia at that time. This is why Michael is often referred to as the “father of forensic science at UTS.”[1]

Michael subsequently became the head of the Department of Chemistry and Forensic Science and an associate professor. His expertise was listed accordingly in a recent university Web site: “Analysis of pharmaceutical drugs, analysis of illegal drugs, forensic science, analytical chemistry, pharmacology of drugs, criminal links to drugs and alcohol, drug and alcohol policies, drugs in sport, freedom of speech, civil liberties, the influence of the media on drug laws.”[2] An active researcher as well as an academic and research degree supervisor, Michael had a particular interest in the analysis of licit and illicit drugs, leading to strong industry connections with various drug enforcement agencies. He was a strong advocate and supporter of drug reform and served on many professional committees. But Michael also tended to reflect on the human side of drug use. For example, he was also a very active board member and treasurer of the charity organization Family Drug Support.

Students and colleagues described Michael as a mentor, supporter, and friend.[1] He was very vocal in his views on drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Michael would often write letters to the editors of various popular Australian newspapers, only to lament about their severe editing upon publication. He would also often appear as an expert witness in court trials or in various television programs.

UTS held a memoriam in his honor a week after his death. His family, friends, and colleagues both celebrated his life and lamented his passing. One close friend and colleague remembered Michael as someone who would “always stand up for ideas and people because he had the evidence and sincerely believed it was the right thing to do. He would always do this with the utmost integrity and fairness.”[1] Michael was also remembered by others as “not motivated by self-interest and would always act in the best interests of his work colleagues and friends.,” “as genial, charming, and always with a twinkle in his eye. He was also very fond of his department and all of the staff and students who formed part of it. He was a true dedicated and professional academic: a joy to work with,” and “always there for everyone, be they a student, colleague, family or friend.”[1] Michael always made time for everyone, and he will be both remembered and missed for this.

Outside of his work life, Michael was a practical, hands-on man who loved to renovate his home. His favorite nonprofessional passions were his wife, his two young children, his extended family, his favorite power drill, and various bits of timber.

Michael's passing was devastating to his family, his friends, and his colleagues. He leaves a big hole in both our lives and hearts that will not be easily or quickly filled.

Michael, this issue of Seminars in Thrombosis and Hemostasis is dedicated to you. May you rest in peace.

REFERENCES

• 1 Aloisio L, Mears A. Remembering Associate Professor Michael Dawson. Available at: http://datasearch2.uts.edu.au/science/news-events/news-detail.cfm?ItemId=24740 Accessed February 6, 2011
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• 2 UTS .Newsroom. Find an expert. Available at: http://newsroom.uts.edu.au/find-an-expert?area=183 Accessed February 6, 2011
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Emmanuel J FavaloroPh.D. F.F.Sc. (RCPA) 

Department of Haematology, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research (ICPMR), Westmead Hospital

SWAHS, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia

Email: emmanuel.favaloro@swahs.health.nsw.gov.au