The Cooley Touch: An Interview with Denton Cooley

Have a peaceful time Sir

Thank you from one of your Perfusion students from the early 1980's! I was fortunate to have trained under your watchful eye. I think of you often, as I look at your picture on my office wall, which is a photograph which I took of you during a heart transplant back in 1982, and that you graciously signed "with respect and gratitude". With respect and gratitude, I thank you for the opportunities working in your program has provided to me thus far in my career.

A TRULY GIFTED AND TECHNICAL MAESTRO IN THE FIELD OF CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY. YOUR SPEED, DEXTERITY AND ENTHUSIASM REMAIN UNRIVALLED. YOU ARE CERTAINLY AN ICON SIR WHO HAS LEFT AN INDELIBLE HERITAGE. I SALUTE YOU.

What an excellent, insightful and timely discussion with a true giant in cardiovascular surgery.

We presented Dr. Cooley with our humble award a few years back. We gave the award to recognize those that contributed immensely to the field of cardiac surgery but also this that did so with graciousness, humility, kindness and inclusiveness. Dr. Cooley personifies all of these traits and more. He accepted the award as if it were his highest honor. He could make anyone feel special and important. Dr. Cooley's passing closing the chapter on the pioneers of cardiac surgery. His loss is irreplaceable.

Quite a commendable insight, thoughtful answers to the evolution of this thrilling field of medicine, than you sir.

He is God