The LGDA Board of Directors mourns the passing of John “Jack” F. Kelly, former President and Executive Director of the Lymphangiomatosis & Gorham’s Disease Alliance (LGDA). Jack played a central role in guiding LGDA following the passing of its founder, his daughter Jana Sheets, ensuring her vision continued to grow and serve families affected by Complex Lymphatic Anomalies (CLAs).
At a time when awareness, resources, and research collaboration for CLAs were limited, Jack worked alongside a small group of families to advocate directly within the medical and research communities. He attended conferences, met with researchers, and helped bring clinicians together—laying early groundwork for the collaborative efforts that continue to advance the field today.
In addition to his leadership at LGDA, Jack served on the Board of Directors of the Lymphatic Malformation Institute (LMI), LGDA’s research partner. Through this role, he helped strengthen ties between patient advocacy and research, supporting efforts to expand awareness and grant opportunities for investigators studying lymphatic anomalies.
“Jack carried Jana’s mission forward with extraordinary dedication,” said Scot Wiesner, President of the LGDA Board of Directors. “His leadership helped build a foundation that continues to support patients, families, and researchers today.”
We invite members of our community to read the full tribute from the LGDA Board of Directors honoring Jack’s life and legacy.
In lieu of flowers, Jack’s family has asked that those who wish to honor his memory consider making a contribution to the Lymphangiomatosis & Gorham’s Disease Alliance (LGDA) in support of the mission that meant so much to him.
