Reposted, with permission, from Cochrane Methods.

It was with deep sadness that the Cochrane Adverse Effects Methods Group said goodbye to Andrew Herxheimer, a founding member of The Cochrane Collaboration and the Adverse Effects Methods Group.

If it had not been for Andrew, the Adverse Effects Methods Group would never have existed. Andrew was a pioneer in so many ways. His passion for patients as an important and authentic source of information was ahead of its time. There is much opportunity (and need) to learn from patients in many parts of health care, including patient safety; Andrew taught us the importance of seeking the patient voice.

Andrew was also a truly amazing man. An inspiration to many; we have all got something to thank Andrew for there. He was always helpful, and the multitude of Tweets and Facebook messages show how Andrew touched so many people's lives. Andrew was also noted by his acute perception of science and life. He was one of these rare special people who can genuinely share wisdom, and he will be sorely missed. 

The Convenors of the Cochrane Adverse Effects Methods Group would like to thank Andrew for his dedication and commitment to the Cochrane Adverse Effects Methods Group. Ten days before his death, he managed to meet the group in a teleconference to discuss projects and future plans.

A web page is available for people to express condolences, recount memories, and share photographs.

This is the last memory we will keep from Andrew, active, kind and interested, attending the most recent Cochrane Colloquium in Vienna (2015):  Andrew and the youngest Convenor of the Cochrane Adverse Effects Methods Group, Daniela.