In Memory of Prof Bernice Krafchik (May 9, 1938 - December 16, 2020)
The ISPD mourns the loss of Prof Bernice Krafchik, called by many “the Queen of Pediatric Dermatology”, given her impact on the field. During her lifetime, she lectured or visited 116 countries around the world to share her knowledge and vast experience in caring for children with skin disorders. Even in 2018, after celebrating her 80th birthday, Bernice was still educating around the world, including in Africa.
Bernice was educated in South Africa and England, but eventually settled in Toronto in the 1960s with her Canadian husband, Stan AvRuskin. No doubt her father, a dermatologist in South Africa, influenced her career choice, but her focus on pediatric dermatology influenced us all. In addition to her young patients, Bernice’s biggest priority was her family. She treasured her four children and eight grandchildren - and missed terribly her husband after he passed away in 2006.
Bernice was an early member of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology and a leader at the University of Toronto, the Hospital for Sick Children, and several other Toronto hospitals. She retired from providing clinical care in 2010. She published almost 100 papers, as well as almost 50 books and book chapters. She received more than a dozen honors, including the Canadian Dermatology Association’s Award of Merit, the International Society of Dermatology’s Maria Duran Award, and the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Alvin H. Jacobs Award for her teaching and patient care. When the International Society for Pediatric Dermatology had its 1992 World Congress of Pediatric Dermatology in Toronto, Bernice was instrumental in helping to host that outstanding meeting. She was devoted to supporting the next generation, always available for discussion and known for giving her address to young pediatric dermatologists for continued exchanges after congresses.
Although barely 5 feet tall, Bernice was a giant among us and typically the center of attention. One cannot picture her without a broad smile on her face. Full of life, she loved people and quickly made friends everywhere. She was adored by all – and, despite her stature as a leader in the field, was consistently humble. She gave of herself constantly and generously. In that spirit, her family asks that anyone who chooses to donate in Bernice’s memory do so to a cause of your choice.
She was a mensch and a true child of Africa who upheld the meaning of ubuntu. Bernice – the world of pediatric dermatology will miss you and remember you fondly forever.
From the ISPD Board of Directors
Christine Bodemer, Mark Koh, Margarita Larralde, Arti Nanda, Amy Paller, and Gail Todd
In Memory of Prof John Harper (1950 - April 5, 2021)
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The ISPD mourns the death of Professor John Harper, who passed away suddenly on April 5, 2021. Professor Harper was a giant in our field and a mentor to hundreds of pediatric dermatologists. For many years he led the team at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London. In 2001, John was awarded a personal chair and, in recognition of his contribution to Pediatric Dermatology, became the first Professor of Pediatric Dermatology in the UK at GOSH and the Institute of Child Health.
He made landmark contributions to the literature and his work and networking were pivotal to the growth of the field of pediatric dermatology. He was instrumental in establishing and supporting many patients support groups in the UK and lectured across the globe as an acclaimed speaker.
John was the founder Secretary and Chairman of the British Society for Pediatric Dermatology from 1988 to 1991 and President of the European Society of Pediatric Dermatology from 1993 to 1996. A prolific author, he served as Associate Editor of the Journal “Pediatric Dermatology” (1993-98) and was a Referee for major journals. He is well known for Harper’s Textbook of Pediatric Dermatology, 4th Edition of which was last published in 2020. He has published more than 185 scientific papers in various peer reviewed journals.
In 2011, he received the International League of Dermatological Societies’ Certificate of Appreciation. He was greatly looking forward to being honored at the upcoming European Society for Pediatric Dermatology meeting with its inaugural Masters Award for Lifetime Achievement in Pediatric Dermatology, which will now be given posthumously. We will miss John dearly, but his impact will live on for generations to come.
From the ISPD Board of Directors
Amy Paller, Christine Bodemer, Margarita Larralde, Arti Nanda, Gail Todd, and Mark Koh
In Memory of Dr. Robert Sidbury (1964 - July 11, 2025)
The ISPD mourns the death of Dr. Robert Sidbury, who passed away suddenly on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the age of 61. A beloved physician, colleague, mentor, and friend, Rob’s loss is felt profoundly across the pediatric dermatology community.
Dr. Sidbury trained in pediatric dermatology at the Children’s Memorial Hospital (now Lurie Children's) in Chicago after residency at Oregon Health Sciences University. In 2000, he moved to Seattle, where he built a distinguished career at Seattle Children’s Hospital and the University of Washington, ultimately serving as Professor of Pediatrics and Chief of Dermatology. He also held a faculty position at Harvard Medical School while completing his Master's in Public Health and shortly thereafter.
A national leader in the care of atopic dermatitis, Rob co-chaired the American Academy of Dermatology’s guidelines committee twice and pursued a Master’s in Public Health to further his research. He authored numerous publications and was deeply committed to advancing knowledge and improving patient care.
Rob’s service to the Society for Pediatric Dermatology (SPD) was extraordinary, including roles as Program Co-Chair (2014), Vice President of Finance & Administration (2017–2021), and President (2022–2023). He was also a dedicated member of the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA).
Rob was more than his titles—he was kind, curious, wise, and deeply empathic. He known for his mentorship, humor, and unshakeable generosity of spirit. He gave selflessly to patients, trainees, and colleagues, and leaves behind a legacy defined by compassion, leadership, and joy.