In this issue of Journal of Clinical Ultrasound, it is my sad duty to acknowledge the death of W. Frederick Sample, M.D., a member of our editorial staff.
Few people in this or any other discipline could have equaled his achievements in such a short span of time. I first met Fred in the final year of his residency in radiology at U.C.L.A. At the request of his chairman, a 1-month period of training was arranged in San Diego before initiating the clinical service a t U.C.L.A. During the month of July 1975 we shared the exciting experience of identifying the upper abdominal structures by the then revolutionary gray scale method. It was obvious that as a pupil he showed remarkable aptitude for ultrasound anatomy. His surgical background was an enormous asset in piecing together the three-dimensional relationships necessary for proper interpretation. At the conclusion of the month we were fast friends with great mutual respect for each other.
In the years that followed it became apparent that in addition to being a first-class researcher he was also a superb teacher. His scholarly articles on abdominal and pelvic anatomy are still the classics of their field. His lectures were the highlights of many postgraduate seminars throughout the world. Superb organization and just a touch of humor were trademarks of a Sample lecture. Following such sessions, he was always available for questions until the last listener was satisfied.
Fred's death will be felt a t many levels throughout the world. To those of us who worked with him as professional colleagues, a great void has appeared in our lives that seems impossible to fill. To the discipline of diagnostic ultrasound, one of her most promising researchers is gone. To the world of patient care, the loss is truly incalculable.
At the same time, we extend our sincerest sympathy to his family and friends who feel pain of an even greater magnitude.
Few would deny that whatever our contacts with him were we were made better by them.