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It is with heavy hearts that all of us with Children’s Health Defense announce the passing of one of the most stalwart and steadfast advocates in the medical freedom movement, Gayle DeLong. Gayle was a gentle soul who devoted her many skills to raising her two daughters and to strengthening the movement. After a seven-year struggle with cancer, Gayle passed away peacefully on Jan. 5 at home and with her family.

Gayle was an accomplished scholar. She had a BA in economics, a MA in international business and a Ph.D. in finance and international business. She was an associate professor of economics and finance at the Bert W. Wasserman Department of Economics and Finance at Baruch’s Zicklin School of Business. A gifted writer and researcher, Gayle’s work in business was published in a variety of media from peer-reviewed journals to magazines and blogs. But our community is indebted to her most for her published contributions to autism and vaccine safety science.

Gayle was a devoted and loving mom, a brilliant and fierce advocate, and loyal friend. She leaves a huge void in our world. Those who knew and worked with Gayle describe her as kind, compassionate, loving and always a pleasure to be around. But they will also recall her courage, her determination and her endless dedication to ensuring that the truth about the factors that continue to devastate the health of children around the world will one day be widely acknowledged.

Gayle was in the vaccine injury trenches early on, assisting at conferences, rallies and other events, maintaining an always welcome presence with numerous organizations including SafeMinds, National Autism Association and Children’s Health Defense. Her latest work of advocacy for our community was just several months ago when she arranged a trip for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to visit the Amish community in Pennsylvania, helping to bring truth to the masses regarding autism, vaccine safety and health freedom.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, friends and family make a contribution in Gayle’s name to Children’s Health Defense. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Gayle’s husband Jonathan and their two beloved daughters, Jennifer and Flora.