Lion Denis Gilchrist
Lion Denis Gilchrist - Father Figure of MedicAlert!
It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of Past District Governor Lion Denis Gilchrist from Medway Lions Club.
As a former Chair of The MedicAlert Foundation and International Director, Denis helped to bring MedicAlert to our shores from Canada in 1965. He quickly saw how the Lions could bring this life-saving service here and benefit many people. But, not only did he spot this opportunity, he was a driving force in ensuring that this project was a great success.
In 1983 at the Multiple-District Convention, there was much discussion about the future relationship with MedicAlert. The Lions Clubs agreed to have a greater involvement, Denis agreed to help lead this renewed support and drive the organisation forward.
Often described as the Father figure of MedicAlert, he worked tirelessly through the decades to encourage Lions to sign up people who may benefit from the life-saving service. On retiring as Chairman of MedicAlert in 1992, Denis became President Emeritus for life.
It is fair to say that each of the 300,000 people in the UK who have benefited from the MedicAlert service, owe Denis a huge debt of thanks.
PID Lion Phil Nathan MBE current Chair of The MedicAlert Foundation says:-
When I came onto the Board in 1997 Denis was always there ahead of us all but he quietly bade farewell and departed early - it was some time before I was aware that his failing sight meant he should head for home in the daylight. Denis was as inspiration, his affection for the Foundation and what it stood for still drew him to the Board to offer his wisdom knowledge and support. A true gentleman and I am proud to be able to say I knew him.
Lion Ron Wade, former Chair of The MedicAlert Foundation says:-
‘MedicAlert would not be here today if it were not for the vision that Denis had all those years ago. Whilst I was Chair of the Foundation, he was a great source of advice and a sounding board offering vital support when needed.'
