Prof Denis Spelman retires, leaving a lasting legacy

In a career garnering countless awards, achievements and milestones, Prof Spelman said he is most proud to have been the co-founder and Head of Spleen Australia alongside Penny Jones (pictured right), which includes the Spleen Registry.    

“In the early 2000s, I saw a patient who had come into the emergency department very unwell with severe sepsis,” Prof Spelman said. 

“Despite our care, unfortunately she died. It turned out that she had her spleen removed eight years earlier, which was part of her treatment for lymphoma. 

“As you may know, the spleen is an organ that helps to fight off infections, especially severe ones. 

“Her death raised the question, ‘What can we do to prevent this from happening to others?’” 

Spleen Australia was set up to ensure all registered patients would receive education about the risks of developing severe sepsis, and how to best prevent and manage it; as well as contributing research in the area. 

With offices onsite at The Alfred, there are now more than 12,500 active patients from across the country registered with Spleen Australia. 

“What makes me proud is Spleen Australia saves lives,” Prof Spelman said. 

"We have since demonstrated those people who have lost their spleen and are registered with Spleen Australia have a lower mortality rate than those who are not registered; which means our work is making a difference.”  

Director of the Department of Infectious Diseases at The Alfred Prof Anton Peleg described Prof Spelman as an “extraordinary person”. 

“Denis has shaped generations of clinicians, scientists and leaders through his humility, brilliance, and unwavering commitment to patient care and teaching,” Prof Peleg said. 

“His humility, deep thinking and extraordinary clinical and microbiology expertise set a standard we all aspire to.  

“His impact on Infectious Diseases, Microbiology, and our entire community is nothing short of remarkable — a legacy built on curiosity, kindness, wisdom and the art of asking great questions.” 

In retirement, Prof Spelman said he’s looking forward to spending more time with his children and grandchildren and catching up on reading.  

“I must say it has been a great privilege to work at the Alfred since 1983 and to work with so many wonderful Alfred staff,” Prof Spelman said. 

"My overriding feeling towards The Alfred and its staff is one of immense gratitude for employing me, for the opportunities that I have been given, and for the great friendships and support I have received throughout my time there.” 

Thank you, Professor Spelman, for the lifesaving work you have done for the community. We wish you the best in retirement.