Don B. OlsenTrue Valor: Barney Clark and the Utah Artificial Heart

Dr. Olsen is without question the foremost expert in the field of mechanical replacement of the natural heart. The implantation of the Jarvik artificial heart in Dr. Clark was made possible by the preceding years of research and development that Dr. Olsen directed at the University of Utah Artificial Heart Laboratory in Salt Lake City. Without Dr. Olsen's laboratory contributions, the clinical use of the Jarvik artificial heart would have never been possible. This experience places Dr. Olsen in the unique position to write a detailed and accurate narrative of the first human implantation of the Jarvik artificial heart as well as provide the necessary ancillary information of the events that lead up to this momentous medical achievement. Although there are instances where Dr. Olsen's narrative reflects his bias regarding individuals and events, these passages do not diminish the importance of this book.This book adds to Dr. Olsen's very impressive curriculum vitae that includes numerous scientific papers, book chapters and world wide presentations. However I would argue that Dr. Olsen's greatest and most enduring legacy (other than his family) was his mentorship of a legion of individuals who worked in his laboratory. These men and women not only contributed to the development of the artificial heart but with Dr. Olsen's guidance many have gone on to successful careers in medicine, science and business. We all owe Dr. Olsen a debt of gratitude for a job well done..thank you!

This is my grandfather and ge is an amazing man! So honored to know him and all he achieved

People who dedicated their lives to helping others live.