Tribute to Dr. Louis Barich
By: Joel Hazel
Louis Barich was one of the most engaging individuals I have had the pleasure and fortune to have known and with whom I have worked. His undaunted commitment to the promotion of dermatology and its roles in the protection and care of our patients and the advancement of knowledge through our medical organizations has few parallels.
In the area of tanning legislation his ardor and perseverance stimulated awareness and action locally, Statewide, with the AAD and subsequently nationwide. This awareness of the dangers of tanning and sun exposure without protection is now shared by millions around the world because he was one of the foremost and tenacious leaders in that effort.
As our treasurer and with an eye to the future of our organization and in order to insure the invaluable contribution to learning provided through the ODA to present and future dermatologists, Louis unflaggingly promoted its financial independence and was seminal with others in establishing the Ohio Dermatological Foundation finally achieving and exceeding our goals.
Finally, his friendship, open positive manor and enthusiasm has served as stimulus and a role model to all of us who have had the honor to know him.