ASRA Pain Medicine Mourns the Passing of Dr. Cosmo A. DiFazio, Past President
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the loss of longtime society member and past president, Cosmo Americo DiFazio, MD, PhD. Dr. DiFazio, age 91, passed away on August 21, 2024. The American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA Pain Medicine) honors his life and legacy.
Born in Rumford, Maine, Dr. DiFazio began his studies at Rutgers University, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and earned a bachelor's degree in pharmacology. He received his MD and PhD credentials from the University of North Carolina, before heading to the University of Virginia (UVA) for residency. Following residency, Dr. DiFazio joined UVA's faculty in 1964. He continued to serve patients and taught generations of physicians for nearly 40 years.
His dedication to advancing and teaching in the field awarded him UVA's Anesthesia Faculty Teaching Award. UVA established the Cosmo A. DiFazio Professorship in 2003, recognizing individuals for their impact and leadership within regional anesthesia.
ASRA Pain Medicine is fortunate to have had Dr. DiFazio as president for the 1994-1995 term. He has authored more than 100 publications, and his contribution to the field spanned throughout his entire career.
ASRA Pain Medicine extends our deepest sympathy to Dr. DiFazio's family, friends, and loved ones.