May 21, 2019
May 21, 2019
I only recently learned of the passing of Dr. Gayle Marsh who was an early mentor of mine. I was a work-study student in UCLA's very first neuropsychology testing laboratory that was headed by Gayle Marsh and her able assistant, Sue Hirsch. Two great women. Gayle and her husband, Dr. James Marsh, were early pioneer investigators and clinicians in the new field of neuropsychology. Dr. James Marsh had his own separate laboratory at UCLA. I was in awe of the Drs. Marsh, who to me were like the husband-wife team of investigators come-alive from the1930's film THIN MAN. Gayle was a beautiful person, inside and out. To me she was the model clinician...intelligent with an inquisitive mind, encouraging, kind, empathic and open minded. She encouraged me to explore this new developing field of neurosciences. She trained me in Luria's methods of testing and allowed me to assist with testing patients in her laboratory. She encouraged me to follow my heart and passion. As a result I had a very happy career as a clinical geroneuropsychologist. It was Gayle Marsh who is primarily responsible for creating that pathway for me. I am forever grateful. She has remained in my thoughts and prayers all these years and remains there.