President reflects on Dame Clare Marx announcement

21 Jul 2021

College President, Professor Jackie Taylor has expressed her thanks and best wishes to Dame Clare Marx as she steps down from the role of Chair of the GMC following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

“Clare has been, and continues to be, a huge inspiration to me as a female leader who has been instrumental in progressing the focus on wellbeing, kindness and compassion throughout our health service.”

In her statement announcing the decision to step down from the role, Dame Clare reflected on the professionalism, kindness and support she had received through her life from the mentors who encouraged her in her early career to the medical teams who have treated her following her diagnosis with pancreatic cancer.  She said, “My wish is that this spirit carries through the months and years ahead. So every doctor and every patient experiences the compassion that defines first-class care.”

Professor Taylor said, “Dame Clare’s own words epitomise the compassion that she has shown to so many and I am grateful that this kindness and care has been returned to her both through her medical career and as a patient. I wish Clare the very best and will continue to do all I can personally and professionally to promote that spirit of compassionate leadership and wellbeing that she has inspired in so many people.”

The whole of the College community endorses Professor Taylor’s words for Clare, who is an honorary fellow of the College.