“Vivien T. Thomas was a key player in pioneering the anastomosis of the subclavian artery to the pulmonary artery.The surgical work he performed with Alfred Blalock paved the way for the successful outcome of the Blalock-Taussig shunt.

In January 1930, Vivien Thomas, a young African-American who was forced for lack of funds to leave his first year of college, came to work for Blalock in his laboratory. At that point Blalock's increasing obligations were cutting into the time he could spend in the laboratory and he needed a surgical assistant. A more fortunate choice could not have been made. Vivien Thomas learned to perform the surgical operations and chemical determinations needed for their experiments, to calculate the results, and to keep precise records; he remained an invaluable associate throughout Blalock's career.

Enjoy.

Hansberry, who has no formal surgical training, was able to increase stitching speed by three times with the endo stitch versus the conventional needle driver.

New eyes, new blood. Someone will be looking to grant him a scholarship at some point.

I think this young man is damned good indication of what can transpire when parents encourage their children, strengthen them thru praise and help. Oh yeah – and LOVE. Gotta love 'em.

GOOD ON HIM!! :>) God Bless!! :>)

Our geniuses show themselves at an early age. We have to have the compassion to allow them to be what they have to offer, and to encourage them even when there is nothing material to offer them.

AND

The brain picture I have of a 14 year old near-child stitching up a dummy's . . . Well never mind ;-) Good for this young man. Yay!