We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Dr. Monique LeBourgeois on November 28, 2023. Dr. LeBourgeois was a luminary in the field of sleep and circadian physiology, leaving an indelible mark on our understanding of early childhood sleep patterns. Her pioneering research and innovative methodologies have significantly contributed to unraveling the mysteries of sleep development in toddlers.
Dr. LeBourgeois’ groundbreaking work focused on advancing our comprehension of sleep and circadian rhythms, particularly in the crucial early childhood years. Her dedication to this field has not only expanded our knowledge but has also paved the way for future breakthroughs in pediatric sleep research. One of Dr. LeBourgeois’ notable contributions was the development of creative and rigorous techniques for conducting circadian and sleep research within the home environment. Traditionally, such studies were confined to laboratory settings, which often failed to capture the intricacies of natural sleep patterns. Recognizing this limitation, Dr. LeBourgeois sought to bridge the gap between controlled laboratory conditions and the real-world complexities of a toddler’s sleep routine.
Dr. LeBourgeois’ ingenuity was evident in her use of salivary melatonin assessments and high-density EEG/polysomnography on toddlers, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between circadian rhythms and sleep architecture in young children. These techniques enabled her to gather invaluable data on sleep patterns, circadian phase preferences, and neurophysiological aspects of early childhood sleep – all within the comfort and familiarity of the home environment.
Her commitment to advancing methodologies also extended to addressing the unique challenges of studying toddlers, whose sleep patterns can be unpredictable and influenced by various factors. Dr. LeBourgeois’ work has not only deepened our understanding of sleep in early childhood but has also set a new standard for conducting research in the home setting, opening avenues for future investigations into pediatric sleep.
Beyond her scientific achievements, Dr. Monique LeBourgeois was renowned for her mentorship and collaboration within the scientific community. Her passion for education and the nurturing of young minds inspired countless researchers to follow in her footsteps. Colleagues remember her as not only a brilliant scientist but also a compassionate mentor who encouraged curiosity and critical thinking.
The loss of Dr. Monique LeBourgeois is profound, and her absence leaves a void in the field of pediatric sleep research. However, her legacy lives on in the knowledge she has imparted and the foundation she has laid for future generations of researchers. The impact of her work extends far beyond the pages of scientific journals, reaching into the lives of families and children who benefit from a deeper understanding of the critical role sleep plays in early development.
In remembering Dr. LeBourgeois, let us honor her legacy by continuing to push the boundaries of knowledge, applying innovative methodologies, and fostering a spirit of collaboration in the pursuit of unraveling the mysteries of sleep and circadian physiology in early childhood.
