In Memoriam: Prof. Dr. Christina Stukenborg-Colsman

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the sudden and unexpected passing of Prof. Dr. Christina Stukenborg-Colsman between the 24^th and 25th of March 2025, at the age of fifty-seven.

Christina was a truly remarkable person whose commitment improving patient care was evident in every aspect of her work; she stood out not only for her surgical skill but also for the depth of her compassion and her determination to raise standards of care for all.

Passionately committed to both the advancement and sharing of knowledge across the orthopaedic community, Christina was the driving force behind a wide variety of international scientific and educational projects, as well as a dynamic member of the European Foot and Ankle Society. On Council from 2018–22, her insight and level-headedness helped to steer the society safely through the challenges of the pandemic. A long-standing and active member of the Scientific Committee, Christina's insight, thoughtfulness and calm, collaborative spirit were pivotal to the success of EFAS's Congresses, Advanced Symposia, and educational programmes as well as in shaping EFORT's foot and ankle sessions.

Beyond her contributions to EFAS, Christina played a leading role in the German Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (D.A.F.), where she was first elected President in 2021 and reelected in 2024. A strong advocate of inclusivity, she not only worked tirelessly for the development of the German foot and ankle community but also fostered deeper engagement with EFAS and provided invaluable support for the society's fledgling diversity project.

Christina led her department at Hannover University with warmth and perspicacity, guiding the next generation of orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons with tireless energy, deep commitment and unfailing generosity of spirit. Her empathy, insight and wisdom enriched every project she touched and made her a priceless colleague and friend. She had an innate gift for bringing people together, her quiet strength and unwavering grace inspiring them to get the best from themselves and from each other.

Courageous and never easily intimidated, Christina's eloquence, incisive intellect and ready wit made her a formidable opponent in debate, yet arrogance and pomposity were strangers to her, and she was always able to laugh at herself when the occasion arose.

The untimely loss of Christina has dealt a profound blow to our foot and ankle community. We have been deprived far too soon of a skilled surgeon, a visionary scientist, a generous teacher and a true friend. Yet her spirit, her values, and her unwavering dedication will remain with us in our work, in the colleagues she mentored, and in the example she has set us to emulate.

Our heartfelt condolences go to her family, her children, and all those mourning her loss. She will be deeply missed, but always remembered — with gratitude, admiration and the highest respect.

Rest in peace, dear Christina.