News Release

Statement by HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on the Passing of Dr. Ruth Kirschstein

Earlier this week (October 6, 2009), the National Institutes of Health, as well as the entire international medical research community, lost one its greatest leaders and mentors -- Dr. Ruth Kirschstein. Ruth was one of our nation's most dedicated public servants, serving the NIH for more than 50 years in a variety of positions, including six years as deputy director and twice as acting director of the agency. Despite her humility, there are few people at NIH and in the medical research community who were not touched by Ruth's brilliance, compassion, and devotion to the mission of improving human health. In fact, people from all walks of life and leadership looked to Ruth for advice when faced with a personal medical challenge. Our hearts go out to Ruth's husband, Dr. Al Rabson, and their son, Dr. Arnold Rabson, as we all mourn the loss of a true icon in American medicine.

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Last revised: May 7, 2011