Last week, I moderated a continuing education webinar for the All Florida Case Management Network. The webinar’s title was Exercise Interventions Targeting Obesity in Persons with Spinal Cord Injury. The speaker was Dr. David Gater, an expert in this area.
He was enthusiastic in his presentation as this topic is close to his heart. He got great reviews from the over 60 people who attended the zoom webinar.
We talked after the webinar, and he told me he respected case management professionals as they are true advocates for the patient. Something truly needed in today’s healthcare system.
You can imagine my shock when I receive a text from Patrice Morales, Director of Admissions/Business Development at the Christine E Lynn Rehabilitation Hospital at the University of Miami regarding Dr. Gater’s death. Patrice and I worked on this webinar for the past few months.
Her text told me that Dr. Gater collapsed Saturday night while riding his bike and died. He was brought to Jackson Memorial Hospital by EMS but was pronounced dead on arrival.
This news was shocking as I had just met the man a few days before. He was full of life, energetic, and optimistic. He loved what he was doing and was committed to helping spinal cord patients through his research and medical practice.
Dr. Gater’s sudden death is an important reminder of how life can change on a dime. I urge you to not waste a minute in worry, anger, or despair.
You never know when or how your life will change – so live your life fully!
I am glad I got to meet Dr. Gater and pray that he rest in peace. Please keep Dr. Gater, his family, and Christine E Lynn Rehabilitation Hospital’s team in your prayers.
Thank you for reading this weeks post. Make it a good week!
oh how sad! Your life can change in an instant. Regrettably Iv seen this happen over the past year to many loved ones.
Your words are so true. I will keep him and his family in my prayers.
Such good reminders, Ann. Thanks so much.
You’re so right Ann. Live life fully!
So sorry to hear of Dr. Gater’s passing.
How very shocking! We were fortunate to have him mentor a program for us. I pray for his family and friends that are affected by his death.
This was a WOW.. a “but, I just spoke with him” moment; the last thing I expected to read–so sad.
The take away message for me is LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE
Prayers for Dr. Gater’s family, friends and colleagues affected by this loss. Thank you for sharing, it is a great reminder that no one knows what each day holds.
Great advice.Anne: Be present and make each day count! Words to live by, for sure…
What a sad loss to his family, friends and colleagues.