2010 Flame of Hope Award

Dr. J. Stephen Latimer

Dr. J. Stephen Latimer was an extraordinary physician, colleague and friend. His sudden passing in June of 2009 has had a tremendous impact on the medical community, the Department of Pediatrics, and all those who had the pleasure of knowing and working with this exceptional human being – we can truly say we lost a very special friend.

Dr. Latimer was a devoted husband to M. Elizabeth Latimer, MD, father of Jack, Bobby and Charlie, and stepfather of Caitlin. A graduate of MIT and The University of Virginia, Dr. Latimer was also a retired Colonel in the United States Air Force. Dr. Latimer’s commitment to service and education was unparalleled – he was the recipient of a USAF Commendation Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal and the Pediatric Teacher of the Year Award from Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

For more than ten years, Dr. Latimer led a dedicated team of professionals in the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Georgetown. During his tenure, the division cultivated new and exciting programs, such as the enhanced relationship with the Transplant Institute for small bowel, the expansion of satellite services, and the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment to treat the most complex cases. But the real hallmark of Dr. Latimer was the personal care and concern he extended to all his patients and their families. He exemplified the concept of family-centered care and formed a bond with families in many cases for well more than a decade.

To his colleagues here at Georgetown, Dr. Latimer was widely respected for his medical insight and valued for his guidance, leadership and compassion. It is our privilege to announce that Dr. J. Stephen Latimer will receive the 2010 Department of Pediatrics “Flame of Hope” Award posthumously, acknowledging his lifelong commitment to improve the health and well-being of all children and families.