Emil J Freireich, a trailblazing oncologist who developed groundbreaking therapies for childhood leukemia and came to be recognized as a founding father of modern clinical cancer research, was one of the 60 original members of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Freireich died Feb. 1, 2021.

“For more than 60 years, he pushed boundaries and devoted himself to saving young lives and relieving suffering. Dr. Freireich’s compassion and empathy, with a focus on the holistic needs of individual patients, was fused with scientific creativity and perseverance. This rare blend of exceptional qualities has created a lasting legacy that will forever be part of the history of cancer research and that of MD Anderson,” Peter WT Pisters, M.D., president of MD Anderson, said.

The Cancer History Project has collected the following archives.

In his own words:

Emil J Freireich interviews from the MD Anderson archive.

MD Anderson Tribute:

Video: MD Anderson to pay tribute to legendary Emil J Freireich, M.D., in virtual celebration on Sept. 23

Celebrating Emil J Freireich:

Pioneer of Combination Chemotherapy Dr. Emil J Freireich by ASCO

J Freireich loved good science and a good fight by Moshe Talpaz, MD

Ode to J: “On our best days, we could only wish to be what Freireich was on any one of his average days” by Hagop M. Kantarjian, MD

J Freireich was one of the few oncologists to have developed a cancer cure by Otis W. Brawley, MD

Legendary MD Anderson faculty member Dr. Emil J Freireich passes away at 93 by MD Anderson

In The Cancer Letter:

NCI’s Frei & Freireich era Lauded As Researchers Receive First NIH Distinguished Alumni Award, September 14, 1990

Frei, Freireich Share One GM Prize; Ames, Erikson Win Others, June 17, 1983

Freireich, Moertel Matched Up Again, February 20, 1981

Historical vs. Current Controls: Comparability, Ethical Issues Argued By Moertel, Freireich, April 20, 1979

Freireich Blasts Prevention Advocates, Defends Treatment, September 15, 1978

 Freireich’s Seven Laws To Protect Against Obstacles To Clinical Research, May 14, 1976