Washington, DC- Today, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, released the following statement in honor of legendary medical pioneer, Michael E. DeBakey receiving a congressional gold medal, the highest award given by Congress:

“It is a privilege and an honor to recognize one of the world’s most innovative and brilliant medical thinkers of our time, Dr. Michael E. DeBakey. He has revolutionized cardiovascular surgery, performed over 60,000 cardiovascular procedures, and his research has resulted in countless of lives saved.

“He became Administrator of Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX from 1948 to 1993. This great physician’s work is forever recognized by the Houston community by having its veteran hospital named The Michael E. DeBakey VA medical Center.

“Only 196 Congressional Gold Medals have been awarded since 1776, and Dr. Michael E. DeBakey’s work has made him a staple name in the world of medicine and more than deserving to be recognized by the United States Congress.”

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