In Remembrance
Donald J. Dalessio, MD
Donald J. Dalessio, MD; Seymour Diamond, MD
The first time that I met Donald Dalessio was at the
American Association for the Study of Headache (now
the American Headache Society) meeting in 1964.
The following year, Don became editor of the journal,
Headache. Up to that time, the journal had been a failing
publication. Don served as Editor for over 20 years,
upgrading the publication to its status as a recognized,
peer-reviewed journal. He took a hiatus from editorial
responsibilities, from 1974 to 1976, when he served
as President of the AASH.
At that meeting in 1964, Don and I began a friendship that persevered for many years. In
1970, he helped me establish the National Migraine Foundation (now the National Headache
Foundation). With his wife, Jane, he helped start the Foundation’s monthly newsletter that
survives to this day.
In 1973, we served as co-editors of the textbook, The Practicing Physician’s Approach to
Headache. This collaboration continued through five editions, and in 1998, the sixth edition
was renamed, Diamond and Dalessio’s The Practicing Physician’s Approach to Headache, which was
edited by Merle Diamond and Glen Solomon. These editions became standard texts for those
health care practitioners managing headache patients.
Starting in 1987, Don served as my Co-Director for the continuing medical education
courses of the Diamond Headache Clinic Research & Educational Foundation in Palm Springs.
In 1993, we added a summer course at DisneyWorld in Florida. These courses became one of
the most successful programs in headache medicine.
The courses provided opportunities for both of our families, including grandchildren, to
interact – no matter where the course was being held. Elaine and I always looked forward to
socializing with the Dalessio clan.
We consider it our good fortune to have known Don Dalessio and to call him our friend and
colleague. He will be truly missed.
www.headaches.org
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National Headache Foundation
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