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Donald Low Obituary
Low, who became a trusted face and voice of the response to the epidemic, died Wednesday night after being diagnosed with a brain tumor this year. Allison McGeer, a former colleague, said Thursday he died with family at his side.
The SARS outbreak killed 44 people in Toronto and cost the city $1 billion in tourism. Outside of Asia, Toronto had the largest outbreak, with almost 375 cases. During two outbreaks, more than 27,000 people in and around the city were forced into quarantine.
Low's capacity to explain to the public what was going on made him the face of Toronto's SARS response.
At one point, he had to go into quarantine himself because he'd been in contact with a colleague who came down with SARS. He worked from home and emerged, 14 days later, without developing the disease. He would later marvel that he neve r caught SARS, given the amount of exposure he had.
He visibly lost weight during the outbreak, prompting concerned strangers who saw him on TV news reports to write to ask after his health.
It would take four months to bring the disease under control.
Low was credited by friends and colleagues for both his contribution to the SARS response and for advancing the practice of microbiology and infectious diseases across Canada.
Colleagues said he loved to puzzle out intriguing new developments in infectious diseases. He co-authored nearly 400 peer-reviewed articles for scientific journals. Low was a global expert in flesh-eating disease - necrotizing fasciitis caused by group A Streptococcus. He was also an early and passionate champion of the need to combat antibiotic resistance by prudent use of the precious drugs.
Low is survived by his wife, Maureen Taylor, and by three children from a previous marriage.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
49 Entries
RICHARD SIMPKIN
November 8, 2017
I AM AN OLD FRIEND OF DONS FROM THE WINNIPEG BEACH DAYS. HE WAS A WILD MEN WHEN HIS MED. COURSES WHERE OVER FOR THE SUMMER. WE CHASED GIRLS, DRANK BEER AND ALL THAT STUFF. JUST GOOD FUN! I WAS WITH HIM WHEN HE CRASHED HIS FATHERS CAR AT THE BEACH-I WILL REMEMBER HIM FONDLY.
WE DID LOSE TOUCH SORRY TO SAY, BUT I STILL HAVE PICTURES OF HIM, LORN PORTH BRIAN HANNA, ALAN GRECO ALL FROM THE BEACH.
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS--MAY HE RIP
October 15, 2013
SINCERE SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY OF MR. LOW,JESUS HAS SAID "HAPPY ARE THE MERICIFUL,SINCE THEY WILL BE SHOWN MERCY...matt.5:7...dm
Ene Underwood
September 27, 2013
I am yet another person who had the privilege of working with Don. He was one of a kind. I admired his intellect, positive energy and authenticity. I will ALWAYS remember him.
I recall a couple years ago when Don and I reconnected by phone , how excited and proud he was to tell me of his marriage to you, Maureen. Similarly, I remember the pride with which he spoke of his children.
My thoughts are with you all at this time of incomparable loss.
How you can show support
September 27, 2013
Ms Taylor and children
i had the privilege of working with Dr. Low some years ago. He was a warm, caring and very thoughtful person. My deepest sympathies to all of you. MKR
P. Sargent, RN
September 26, 2013
I was lucky to have worked many shifts with Don in an emergency department. He was pleasure to work with and an impressive man. His video articulately presents an issue that needs to be addressed and that should be part of his legacy. Thanks Don.
September 26, 2013
Sorry for the loss of your loved one.
John 3:16
Anton Maki
September 26, 2013
My deepest condolences to the Low family and immediate friends for the loss of a personable, compassionate, and gifted medical professional that was apparent when I first met him as a Royal College examiner in 1986. I had the privilege to meet Donald over the years at various scientific meeting where he demonstrated his passion and skill as a medical microbiologist and as a humanitarian during the SARS epidemic. Donald will be missed by all who knew him over the years.
Mike G.
September 25, 2013
my condolences to the Low family & to the medical
team , Dr Low will be missed by all of us , he made this
world a better place, may he rest in peace & and god bless him.
MIke G.
Rob McTavish
September 25, 2013
Our deepest sympathies to Dr. Lows' family, he will surely be missed not only by loved ones and the medical community but also the general population that has benefitted from his professional acumen
The McTavish family (Star Lake/Winnipeg)
September 25, 2013
With deepest sympathy to the Low family during your time of grief...God is for you a refuge and strength, A help that is there to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead...(Psalm 62:8).
September 25, 2013
A great loss to us all. My deepest sympathies for Maureen and family.
Roderick W. Stillwell
Feng Si
September 24, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the Low family.
E. C.
September 24, 2013
My sincere condolences to Dr.Low's family and friends He was a wonerful human being he realy cared for people. Dr. Low made a hugedefference in the world in medecine. I never new him, but during SARSI saw him on tv. he worked so hard and tried to make people feel comfortable that is a good doctore and good nature person. I felt I have known him all my life. He is going to be missed . God Rest His Soul. E.C.Burlinton, Ont.,
K K
September 24, 2013
What a wonderful, impressive human being - everything a doctor should be! We were all very fortunate to have him and now his posthumous words. Thank you, Dr. Low.
Tammy Delaney-Plugowsky
September 24, 2013
My condolences to Dr. Low's entire family and friends during this difficult time of loss. While I never knew Dr. Low personally, he was for many of us health professionals - the face of SARS during a time of strain and uncertainty. Prayers and hugs to all.
September 24, 2013
Heartfelt condolences to Dr. Low's family. Dr. Low made a huge difference in the world of medicine, which benefited the entire world. God rest his soul, and God bless his family.
September 24, 2013
I was deeply saddened to here of mr.low's passing.he was such a nice man and very caring.god bless you.you were so brave,condolences to the family.
September 22, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the family. May you seek refuge in God at this time of distress. Psalmm 62:8.
September 22, 2013
To the family
My heart go out to all of you for your loss. I pray that God will comfort and strengthen all of you.
mary holmes
September 21, 2013
My condolences, to your family, may you continue to endure this difficult time may the God of comfort, comfort you and may he grant you peace.
terri diamond
September 21, 2013
Dear Dr. Low---you have gone far too soon you have left us saddened,you have made huge sacrifices to help save everyone---I followed your every word during the horrible sars outbreak--I did not personally meet you,but felt that you were a friend--- God Bless You and comfot your family. Terri Diamond R.N.
A Meek
September 21, 2013
I was deeply saddened to learn of Don's death. It was an honour and privilege to have known him. My sincerest condolences to his family.
September 21, 2013
Sorry to hear of your loss may you find comfort from our Heavenly Father
Jill
September 21, 2013
May God bring you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Phillipians 4:7 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.-John 14:18
Susan House
September 21, 2013
My condolences to Dr. Low's family. May God bless your family with comfort & peace that will soothe your mind & heart. -Phil.4:7
G. Jones
September 21, 2013
To the entire family. Please accept my sympathy. May the God who gives peace be with you all in this time of sorrow. Rom. 15:33 .
Cynthia
September 21, 2013
My deepest condolence is with Dr.Donald Low family.We look to the day when sickness and sorrow and death will be calls of the past but until that time may the comfort from family and friends help in the days ahead.
The Lee's
September 21, 2013
We are sorry to learn of the death of Dr. Low but he is now subject to benefit from Gods love through Jesus Christ. Learn how by reading John 5:25,28-29. Thank God in your prayers.
September 21, 2013
May the God of all comfort be with you.
sincerely ,
Rose I
September 21, 2013
Dear Low Family,
What a privilege it is to get know the man that was spearheading a great work during Toronto's most grim times. Dr. Low will be missed, but his work will never be forgotten. Psalms 103:13,14 assure us that he will also be remembered by our Heavenly Father forever.
Sincerely,
Leona Holze
September 21, 2013
My sincere prayers to Dr Low's Family.
I was shocked to hear the news of the loss of a Great Man who cared so much about everyone he worked with and helped throughout the years. I will always remember him as the finest, most respectable Boss in my career. Thanks for changing our world. Sincerely Leona
Angelica
September 20, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Dr. Low's family . I'm so grateful to have you as my boss and I will surely missed you. May you rest in peace.
Mario Forest Hill Barber Shop
September 20, 2013
our deepest sympathies , he will be missed , amazing friend, it was an honor and privilege to have met and known him
September 20, 2013
Dear Kurt
Our deepest sympathy on your father's death.
We will see you at the Dunfield when you are ready
Fern Cohen
David Shaul
Susan Beaudoin
September 20, 2013
Don was a wonderful boss and an outstanding physician. He had a passion for a challenge and an amazing sense of humor. Thank you for coming to MSH & your continued encouragement all these years. Sincere sympathies to the Low family. Susan and Leilani
Karin
September 20, 2013
I was so sorry to hear about the death of Dr. Low. My deepest condolences to family and friends.
TINA
September 20, 2013
MY CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF DR. LOW. MAY HE BE REMEMBERED BY THE TRUE GOD. AND MAY THE TRUE GOD COMFORT THE FAMILY AT THIS TIME OF GRIEF. ISAIAH 61:2.
September 20, 2013
My deep sympathy to family and friends in this time of great loss. Dr. Low's benevolence to mankind is much appreciated. Our heavenly Father noticed humanitarian works he did and yearns for the time when all disease, pain, sorrow and death are eradicated. At that time mankind will be reunited to enjoy lasting life in joyous conditions. Job 11:11, 23-26. Sincerely, Zoe
Scott Morton
September 20, 2013
I was saddened to hear of the loss of Dr. Low (Donald). Please extend my deepest sympathy to your family circle. May you all find the strength and courage to get through the days ahead.
Dr. Scott Morton
G. Freeman
September 20, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Phillip
September 20, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. May the words of Revalation 21:1-4 bring you comfort in these difficult times. I'm sure Dr. Low would have appreciated this future hope.
Wendy Zhang
September 20, 2013
Dr.Don
I am very sad to hear of your loss in CTV news at noon.
You are always in my mind forever!
Anne Witter RN
September 20, 2013
God Bless you and now keep you Dr. Low Thank -you for your service and willingness to educate.
susan McEwen (yake)
September 19, 2013
Donald Low. I will forever remember you as man with a brilliant mind , a kind heart and a generous spirit. I always left your office laughing. God bless you.
September 19, 2013
We would like to share our heartfelt sympathy to all of the Low family and Dr.Donald Low shall be remember forever.
MIchael, Anna,Julia,Noah
Sonia and Maria Amaral
September 19, 2013
Shawn, Kirk and Mrs. Low we are very sad to hear of your loss.
You are in our thoughs and prayers.
September 19, 2013
I am sorry for your loss. May you be comforted by the words at Jeremiah 29:11.
Dwayne Bickham
September 19, 2013
in God's care rest in peace
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