2021 Hero with a Heart Awardees
James H. Black, III, M.D., FACS
Dr. Black is the Chief of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy at Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the David Goldfarb, MD Professor of Surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. Black is an expert in the application of endovascular technology for patients with aortic and vascular disease. He has unique expertise in open surgical reconstruction and endovascular interventions for the vascular manifestations of all connective tissue conditions. He has given invited lectures on the subject of aortic diseases and connective tissue conditions to the White House Medical Unit and the FDA section in charge of cardiovascular devices. His research interests include the molecular events underpinning the development of aortic emergencies in both atherosclerotic and genetically triggered aortopathies.
Firas F. Mussa, MD, MS, DFSVS, FACS
Firas F. Mussa is Professor of Surgery and Director of Vascular Research at the Zucker School of Medicine at Northwell Health in New York. Dr. Mussa is nationally and internationally recognized as a thought leader in the treatment of aortic dissection. He is currently involved in leading the GenTAC Alliance, a division of The Marfan Foundation. He has published extensively in both basic and clinical research with a focus on technology implications in the treatment of aortic dissection. Having trained in aortic and vascular surgery at the Michael E. DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center in Houston, Dr. Mussa developed a special interest in patients with Marfan disease and other connective tissue conditions. He is currently leading the effort to the NHLBI to fund a large trial to study the most appropriate therapy for patients presenting with type B aortic dissection with and without genetic conditions.
2021 Karen Murray Inspiration of Excellence Awardee
Barbara Lerman, CPA
Barbara Lerman had never heard of Marfan syndrome. But that changed in 2003 with the birth of her daughter, Sydney. Sydney was diagnosed at birth with a very severe form of Marfan syndrome, a rare and potentially life threatening connective tissue condition.
Barbara and her husband Jonathan immediately began to educate themselves about Marfan syndrome so they could arrange the best care for Sydney. The Marfan Foundation became their lifeline, providing the information they needed, helping to connect them to other families with affected children, and giving them access to the country’s leading doctors on the condition.
Despite Sydney’s significant medical challenges, Barbara quickly turned around to give back to the community. With her close friends and family, she created Heartworks Westchester, and over the course of eight years, raised over $1 million for The Marfan Foundation. Barbara also connects with other parents of children with Marfan syndrome and offers support and advice. Together with Sydney and her older daughter, Carly, the family created the Sydney Lerman Pediatric Hospitality Program, which provides support for families while their child is hospitalized. In addition, Barbara has been an extraordinary advocate for The Marfan Foundation, conducting holiday fundraisers and boutiques that not only raise funds but also increase awareness of Marfan syndrome and related conditions.