Madison's Story

The passing of a Pioneer...

It is with a very heavy heart that I pass the news along that Dr. Melvin D. Smith has passed away after a long battle with prostate cancer. He died this morning in San Antonio. For anyone on this site who may not know, Dr. Smith was the co-pioneer of the VEPTR. He was the pediatric thoracic surgeon who approached Dr. Robert Campbell in 1987 about a newborn patient born basically without a chest wall. These two incredible physicians combined their medical knowledge and dedication and created what we now have for our children, the Titanium Rib.
I would be glad to foward the email I received (from the Thoracic Institute) to anyone who would like to read the letter from Dr. Campbell.
Elizabeth


I remember many wonderful things about Dr. Melvin D. Smith. After Madi's initial implant at age two, the "skin issues" became immediately (if not understood) apparent. At first, we attributed her issues to a latex allergy. Let me tell you, words are not equal to the sight of your baby's skin PEELING OFF with the bandages and tape and hearing her scream in pain. Nurses were beside themselves and Residents were perplexed. At about two a.m., in came Dr. Smith. Sleep deprived, but genteel and caring. He cradled Madi and soothed her with his quiet and calm voice. He looked her over from head to toe and immediately went about finding a way to make bandage changes less painful.
A great doctor? Yes. A pioneer in his field? Absolutely. A compassionate, extraordinary and loving MAN? Beyond a doubt.
God Bless You and Reward You, Dr. Smith. You are forever loved here on earth by your tiny riblets and their thankful families. -Rhonda

posted by Rhonda Foote @ 6:34 AM