I worked with Neil over a decade on tobacco control, first meeting him at the Bellagio meeting in 1995.  I admired Neil’s deep commitment to tobacco control, and his dedication to work with many partners. Neil was very helpful in collaboration with the World Bank’s Curbing the Epidemic report, which I led.

Neil was an example of the value of long-term pursuit of public health goals. He was steadfast in battling for tobacco control, politically astute to where opposition arose, and clever in advancing where possible.

My thoughts are with Neil’s family. I hope that remembering his good work and important contributions will give comfort at this difficult time.

Prabhat Jha
University of Toronto