James E. Hannigan, MD
Longtime oncology physician Dr. James Hannigan passed away surrounded by his loving wife, Susan, family, friends and colleagues at the hospital he called home for most of his medical career. Dr. James Hannigan pioneered the oncology program at La Grange Memorial Hospital in 1992 and served as Medical Director-Oncology until 2016. Through his ingenuity and determination, he collaborated with University of Chicago to become a Clinical Research Affiliate bringing groundbreaking cancer care to Chicago’s Western Suburbs.
In 1995, he founded La Grange Oncology Associates to provide personalized cancer care to patients. Through his vision, the group specialized in collaborative care with primary care physicians, surgeons, radiation oncologists and other subspecialties. He loved laughing with his patients and there was much of it.
In addition to his medical expertise, he was noted for his keen wit and fierce intelligence. He enjoyed travel, photography and acting in community theater.
Suggested charities for those who wish to celebrate his memory include the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (http://www2.jdrf.org/goto/jhannigan) and the LaGrange Memorial Hospital Foundation-Oncology Services Fund (https://donation.adventhealth.com/almh/). A memorial celebration will be held on June 1, 2019, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge, 5901 S. County Line Road, Hinsdale, Illinois 60521.
Educational Accomplishments:
B.S., Loyola University of Chicago
Loyola University Rome Center of Liberal Arts
M.D., University of Chicago with Honors
Medical Residency, University of Chicago Medical Center
Fellow, Medical Oncology, Johns Hopkins Oncology Center
Career Accomplishments:
Chicago Magazine’s Top Doctor, Oncology
1992-2013 Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Section of Hematology-Oncology at the University of Chicago
1992-2016 Director, Cancer Program at La Grange Memorial Hospital
1994-2014 Principal Investigator – Clinical Research at La Grange Hospital, a CALGB affiliate through University of Chicago
1995-2009 Chairman, Cancer Committee Adventist Health System, Hinsdale and La Grange Hospitals
2010-2017 Vice-Chair, Cancer Committees Adventist Health System, Hinsdale and La Grange Hospitals
2002-03 Chairman, Department of Medicine Adventist Health System. Hinsdale and LaGrange Hospitals
1994-2017 Moderator of Cancer Conference, Adventist Health System, La Grange Hospital
2008-10 Medical Staff Officer Adventist Health System, Hinsdale and La Grange Hospital Treasurer
2010-11 Medical Staff Officer Adventist Health System, Hinsdale and La Grange Hospitals, Vice President
2012-13 Medical Staff Officer Adventist Health System, Hinsdale and La Grange Hospitals, President
2012-15 Medical Staff Officer Adventist Health System, Hinsdale and La Grange Hospitals, Past President
2006-2010 Board of Governors, Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital Foundation
Activities:
2008-2009 Chairman of the Board of Governors, The Theater of Western Springs
2009-2011 Cancer Liaison for Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital to the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer
I was so sad to hear about this. I worked with him for 18 years. He was a wonderful man and physician. RIP Dr. Hannigan.My condolences to his family and friends. Sue DeMik
Jim was always up for a great conversation – we knew him briefly through TWS, but we admired his humor and friendly personality. We also shared the Loyola Rome Center experience, and would fondly reminisce of our time spent on Monte Mario. He was always a friendly face backstage and will be missed.
Lots of love to Susan and the family during this difficult time – Jenn & Andy Belda
Jim started at TWS about the same time as I did. We grew up in the Theatre together. I also enjoyed many martinis with Jim at Vie’s.
Susan we are there for you.
I am feeling so sad. Jim advised me during my cancer journey. Although we didn’t agree on some things, he always inquired about my health. We were in Sabrina Fair together and he entertained many people with his on stage appearances. He had such a caring personality, and was humorous, kind, intelligent, just a genuine and sincere man. My thoughts go out to Susan, his friends, colleagues and family.