Table of ContentsThe PlotChallenges and DiscriminationLegacy and ImpactConclusionSomething the Lord Made is a thought-provoking film that tells the true story of two medical pioneers, Dr. Alfred Blalock and Vivien Thomas, and of their groundbreaking work in the field of cardiac surgery Set against the backdrop of racial segregation in the mid-20th century United States, the film explores themes of innovation, determination, and pervasive discrimination. faced by African Americans during this era of this gripping film and its profound implications for medicine and society.Say No to Plagiarism Get a custom essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The plot The film begins in the early 1930s when Vivien Thomas, an African-American carpenter, accepts a job as a janitor at Vanderbilt University's medical school. Despite his limited training, Thomas has an innate talent for surgical techniques and a deep fascination with medicine. He soon attracts the attention of Dr. Alfred Blalock, a prominent surgeon and researcher. Blalock, recognizing Thomas' potential, hires him as a lab assistant and begins mentoring him. Together, they embark on a journey to solve the complex problem of "blue baby syndrome," a condition in which babies are born with congenital heart defects that limit their oxygen intake. This condition was almost universally fatal at the time. The duo's collaboration led to the development of a surgical procedure known as the Blalock-Taussig shunt. This revolutionary surgery involves creating a connection between a major artery and a pulmonary artery, thereby increasing the flow of oxygen to the body. Their work is revolutionizing the field of cardiac surgery and giving hope to countless children with the syndrome. Challenges and Discrimination Throughout the film, the audience witnesses the immense challenges and discrimination faced by Thomas and Blalock. Despite his invaluable contributions, Thomas is denied the title "doctor" due to his lack of formal medical training. He is often treated as a second-class citizen and subject to racial prejudice, both in the medical community and in society at large. Blalock, on the other hand, must navigate the difficult terrain of an institution steeped in segregationist practices. He faces backlash and ostracism from some colleagues for his partnership with Thomas and his commitment to advancing medicine, regardless of his assistant's race. Legacy and Impact Something the Lord has done serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of innovation and perseverance in the face of adversity. The Blalock-Taussig shunt, developed by Blalock and Thomas, laid the foundation for modern heart surgery. It has not only saved countless lives, but also paved the way for further advancements in this field, ultimately benefiting patients of all races. Additionally, the film highlights the harsh reality of racial discrimination in the United States in the mid-20th century. Vivien Thomas' journey from janitor to pioneering medical researcher illustrates the immense talent and potential that has often been suppressed due to racial prejudice. Her story is an inspiration and a testament to the importance of recognizing the talent and potential of all individuals, regardless of their background. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion Lord Made is a moving and impactful film that no..