Dr. Ben Carson (1951- ), Groundbreaking Neurosurgeon

Dr. Carson is a contemporary addition to this list because of his achievements, including successfully detaching twins conjoined at the head in 1987 and his groundbreaking surgery on a twin suffering from an abnormal expansion of the head — conducted while the baby was still in the mother’s uterus. Dr. Carson has performed operations which have greatly expanded scientific knowledge of the brain and its functions. Dr. Carson was the youngest and long-time director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. His clinical expertise in treating rare neurological conditions is unquestioned and largely unparalleled.

Congratulations to these and the many other who are pioneers and leaders. Let’s support and encourage the many who continue this proud tradition.