Sharing the Sad News of Dr. Buzz Hollander’s Passing

My name is Hillary Liss and I am privileged to have known Buzz Hollander for over 35 years as a friend and colleague. I write with the heaviest of hearts to share that Buzz left this world on Sunday, June 25, 2023 while traveling from his home on Hawai’i Island to Seattle for ongoing medical care. As some readers of “Buzz About Medicine” may be aware, Buzz was diagnosed with cancer in late 2022 and endured grueling treatments with bravery, grace, and his ever-present sense of humor. Even through these treatments and complications thereof, Buzz wrote so prolifically here in the past months—almost like he knew he was running out of time, despite all predictions that he would survive this.

Buzz leaves behind his wife and partner in all things, Michelle, as well as two young daughters. He was passionate about many things, but none as much as his family.

Buzz approached “Buzz About Medicine” much the way he approached life: with thoughtful planning and consideration, followed by diving in headfirst with unbridled enthusiasm and curiosity. We plan to keep this Substack available for now, and please feel free to leave your thoughts below. Buzz’s family has appreciated all the support they have received from friends and family, and I know the words of his readers will also bring some comfort in the challenging days ahead.

Buzz was very proud of the community he built here at “Buzz About Medicine,” and he relished the conversations provoked by his posts. In our very divisive world, Buzz had a way of bringing us together and challenging us to think about all sides of any issue. We think he would urge us to continue to critically assess the quality and funding of research—medical or otherwise—while always keeping at the forefront how the data presented could impact patients and healthcare outcomes. In the words of Buzz’s sister, Zaz Hollander, Buzz was not just a doctor—he was a healer and a writer. And he will be missed beyond measure.