Honoring the Mentors from 2024: A Tribute to Their Legacy

Abstract

The concept of a mentor represents one of the most important pillars of medical training. It constitutes one of the oldest and noblest arts that has contributed to the growth of this specialty for generations. Mentorship is the essential way to transmit knowledge and values to future generations, ensuring the continuation of legacy in the field. Therefore, the experience and knowledge of current neurosurgeons reflect the influence of previous neurosurgeons. This article aims to show respect to the educators and mentors who passed away in 2024 around the world, with deep gratitude, as learning from those who preceded us helps build a lasting legacy in neurosurgery. A literature review was conducted to examine the deaths of neurosurgeons in 2024 worldwide, without limitation to the English language. A total of 35 neurosurgeons were identified worldwide: one from Africa (Egypt), ten from Asia (Bangladesh, Japan, South Korea, India, and Pakistan); eleven from Europe (Greece, Poland, Spain and T & uuml;rkiye), seven from North America (Canada and the United States), and six from South America (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico). In 2024 there was a great loss to the global neurosurgical community. The deceased neurosurgeons left an indelible mark and a legacy that will endure through their disciples and students. The main lesson is to remain proud and grateful for sharing this discipline across generations, preserving the true values of human knowledge.