In loving memory of Dr Richard Kay, a renowned neurologist and former Editor of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine, who peacefully passed away on 15 February 2024.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine from the University of Cambridge and Guy’s Hospital Medical School in 1976, and later earning a doctorate in Medicine from the same university in 1986, Dr Kay joined the Faculty of Medicine of The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1988, then served as the Chief of Neurology at the Prince of Wales Hospital until 2000.

In addition to his great compassion in caring for patients, Dr Kay dedicated his life to teaching and research, with a particular focus on the application of evoked potentials and the treatment of stroke. His final book, titled Reading Medicine in Twentieth Century England, was released in 2022. His extensive contributions have been published in esteemed international journals, solidifying his reputation and professional standing in his field. From 2004 to 2010, Dr Kay served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Hong Kong Medical Journal. His deep understanding of the journal industry, combined with his exceptional academic background, proved invaluable to the journal’s growth under his leadership. This benefit was evident not only in the remarkable increase in the number of manuscript submissions but also in the journal’s growing popularity, reflected by improvements in its scientific and editorial quality, as well as its enhanced recognition and impact comparable to other regional journals in Asia. As the Editor of the Academy during the same period, he also fostered collaborations with other specialty Colleges and local medical organisations, initiating new publishing opportunities. These efforts helped to establish the Academy Press as an important medical publisher in Hong Kong.

Dr Kay will be remembered for his unwavering professionalism in the field of medicine and his selfless dedication to the medical community. His contributions will continue to inspire future generations of medical professionals.