Dr. El-Sheikh's legacy

Dr. Ayman El-Sheikh, chief of hematology/oncology, passed away on February 3 from complications of COVID-19. Dr. El-Sheikh was an advocate for his patients and families. He was highly respected by his colleagues, both clinical and support staff.

“This is a profound loss for so many – first for his family whom we send our deepest sympathy and prayers for their grief,” says Debbie Feldman, president and CEO. “Our hearts are with the entire hematology/oncology staff. For those who had the privilege of knowing him, he will be remembered for his expertise and drive to cure children of cancer and blood disorders.”

“Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, ‘It is not the length of life, but the depth of life,’ shares Adam Mezoff, MD, chief medical officer.  “Ayman was taken from us far too early, but his memory will always be with us. His impact on the families of our region is immeasurable and cannot be overstated.”

Dr. El-Sheikh joined Dayton Children’s in 2015 and he was board certified in pediatrics and pediatric hematology/oncology.

He had significant interest in blood and marrow transplants, solid tumor treatment, education and research. He was a member of the Scientific Committee for The Children’s Brain Tumor Tissue Consortium (CBTTC), a multi-institutional research program dedicated to the study and treatment of childhood brain tumors.

Dr. El-Sheikh was a champion for Dayton Children’s partnership with Nationwide Children’s Hospital for our bone marrow transplant program to ensure our patients and families can still receive care close to home.

And, he was an advocate for advanced protocols to make treatment easier on patients and their families. His impact on the families of our region is immeasurable and cannot be overstated. We will miss him greatly.

Learn more about Dr. El-Sheikh and his legacy in his physician bio video here.