For Immediate Release
September 25, 2001
Contact:  Rusty Cheuvront or Terry Sebastian (502) 564-2611 

Governor Patton visits with doctors, heart implant patients at Jewish

Louisville, Ky -- Governor Paul Patton today visited with Kentucky’s two artificial heart patients and their doctors at Jewish Hospital for a progress report and to praise all the individuals involved in their historical procedure. 

While meeting with the heart patients -- Robert Tools, Franklin, and Tom Christerson, Central City -- Gov. Patton mentioned how their bravery and Jewish Hospital’s professional staff showed the world what groundbreaking medical research was being conducted in the Commonwealth. 

“These two gentlemen are amazing individuals whose zest for life and unrelenting courage have not only captured the hearts and minds of Kentuckians but the nation,” Gov. Patton said.  “And the medical team, which represents an unprecedented public/private partnership, has put our state at the front of scientific research.” 

The Governor again congratulated the patients’ doctors - Laman Gray and Robert Dowling -- for their years of hard work and research. Gov. Patton presented both physicians with the “Distinguished Kentuckians” award a few weeks ago for their contributions to medical research and for bringing distinction to our Commonwealth. 

“This alliance is a sterling example of the type of cooperation that has and will continue to make Kentucky one of the finest places in the world to live, work and receive healthcare,” he said. 

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