1967 — Dr. C. Barnard performs first human heart transplant. (The patient lives for 18 days, dying from lung infection as a result of his suppressed immune system.)
1972 — Jean Francois Borel identifies uses for Cylcosporine as an immunosuppressive drug, resulting in improved survival rates for transplanted hearts.
1983 — Hopkins launches its heart transplant program and surgeons perform first combined heart and lung transplant.
1984 — U.S. Congress creates a national organization to facilitate organ matching and passes National Transplant Act which prohibits sale of organs.
1995 — FDA approves myco- phenolate mofetil, a drug which helps doctors manage the
immune system.
2003 — Hopkins heart recipient celebrates 20 year transplant anniversary.
