Latest News
Department of Surgery Mourns the Loss of Dr. J. David Richardson
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Dr. J. David Richardson passed away this morning surrounded by family. He was 76 years old.
A general, thoracic and trauma surgeon, and surgical educator, Dr. Richardson enjoyed a distinguished career as a surgeon and educator in the Department of Surgery for more than 30 years and served as Vice Chairman of the Department for more than two decades. In addition, he served as Chief of Surgery at University of Louisville Hospital since 2005. He has served as Program Director for the General Surgery Residency Program at the University of Louisville and in numerous leadership roles on a local, state and national level, including serving as the 96th President of the American College of Surgeons. He lectured throughout the country and across the globe.
In addition to treating the most difficult patients with great skill and compassion, Richardson has spent a lifetime constantly striving to discover and deliver the latest, most effective treatments. One of the best-known and most respected leaders in American Surgery who made enormous contributions on a national level Dr. Richardson published more than 375 scientific articles and book chapters. In fact, over the past several decades he was instrumental in setting standard protocols and approaches to treatment that now are used in trauma centers all over the country. He has touched the lives of innumerable patients, trainees and students – many of whom stayed in touch with him on a regular basis.
Dr. Richardson has left an indelible impression on the lives our staff, faculty, residents, students and alumni. Please see additional information related to services and a memorial in his honor on Nov. 19, 2021.
Dr. Ryan Shapiro Joins Department of Surgery
The Department of Surgery is excited to welcome Ryan Shapiro, M.D. to our Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Shapiro attended medical school at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, OH, where he also completed a residency in Plastic & Reconstruction Surgery. Dr. Shapiro's research interests include breast aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, autologous breast reconstruction, lower extremity reconstruction and nerve surgery, and aesthetic plastic surgery. Dr. Shapiro strives to partner with patients to improve their quality of life through a collaborative care approach. His goal is to provide individually focused care for each patient throughout their personal reconstructive or cosmetic surgery journey.
Trauma Team Partners with Community to Create Future Healer Award
In partnership with the University of Louisville Hospital Trauma Team and the UofL Student National Medical Association, Community activist Christopher 2X and Gamechangers created a local award showcasing individuals with a commitment to education, compassion, and excellence.
The award is named after a nursing student, Kelsie Small, who lost her life to gun violence. Small, a Central High School graduate, was shot the day before Mother's Day in 2020 after offering a ride home to her friends. Small was sent to University Hospital where she later died because of her injuries.
The Kelsie Small Future Healer Award will be presented annually by the Christopher 2X Game Changers non-profit and highlights individuals who are on the path to becoming successful health care workers.
The award honors Small by recognizing those with the same kindness and compassion that she had shown others.
Kelsie's mother, Delisa Love, accepted the first Future Healer Award in honor of her daughter.
Watch UofL Hospital and partners present first Kelsie Small Future Healer Award.
Dr. Richardson to be 46th William T. Fitts Orator
Dr. J. David Richardson has been invited to give the Fitts Oration on Thursday, September 30 at the 80th Annual American Association for the Surgery of Trauma meeting in Atlanta, Georgia. He will the 46th William T. Fitts Orator, and his presentation title will be, “Trauma and Acute Care Surgery: The Evolution of a Specialty."