Something the Lord Made

Something the Lord Made is a powerful and inspiring drama based on a true story of collaboration, perseverance, and groundbreaking medical innovation. The film revolves around the lives of Alfred Blalock, a renowned cardiologist, and Vivien Thomas, a talented African American medical technician with no formal education, as they work together to develop the revolutionary "blue baby" surgery. The story begins in the 1940s, during the Jim Crow era in the United States. Vivien Thomas, an ambitious young African American, has recently migrated to Baltimore in search of better opportunities. He takes a job as a janitor and laboratory assistant at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where he is immediately drawn to the medical facilities and begins to teach himself the basics of anatomy and surgical procedures. Thomas's exceptional skills and curiosity catch the attention of Alfred Blalock, a prominent cardiologist at the hospital. Despite societal norms and Jim Crow laws that restrict African Americans to menial roles, Blalock recognizes Thomas's potential and decides to mentor him. The unlikely duo begins working together in Blalock's laboratory, conducting research and experimenting with various medical procedures. As their collaboration progresses, Thomas becomes an integral part of Blalock's team, assisting him in surgeries and making crucial contributions to their work. Despite the institutional racism and segregation that surrounds them, Thomas and Blalock form a strong bond, built on mutual respect and trust. Thomas's dedication, intelligence, and innovative thinking prove invaluable to the research, and Blalock becomes a strong advocate for his colleague's rights and recognition. Their focus is on addressing the condition known as "blue baby syndrome," a congenital heart defect that leads to poor oxygenation of the blood. The condition is often fatal, and medical experts have failed to develop an effective treatment. Blalock and Thomas dedicate themselves to finding a solution, pouring over research and conducting experiments. They study the anatomy of various animals, from sheep to dogs, in order to better understand the complexities of the cardiovascular system. Through their tireless efforts, Thomas develops a pioneering technique for operating on the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel in the heart that, when opened, allows oxygenated blood to reach the lungs. This groundbreaking discovery, combined with Blalock's expertise in cardiac surgery, forms the cornerstone of the "blue baby" surgery. The film highlights the incredible perseverance and determination of Vivien Thomas, who, despite lacking formal education, possesses an innate talent for science and a passion for helping others. Thomas's contributions to medical history are undeniable, and his determination to overcome the obstacles he faces as an African American in a predominantly white profession serves as an inspiration to audiences worldwide. Meanwhile, Alfred Blalock becomes increasingly frustrated with the racial segregation and inequality that prevents Thomas from earning a salary or being recognized as a full-fledged physician. Blalock's support for Thomas's work and his determination to fight for his colleague's rights are pivotal in paving the way for Thomas's eventual recognition. The film culminates with the successful performance of the "blue baby" surgery, marking a turning point in the medical field and opening doors for subsequent generations of African American physicians and medical professionals. Throughout the story, the narrative masterfully interweaves themes of racial tension, medical breakthroughs, and the unlikely partnership between Blalock and Thomas. The title, "Something the Lord Made," reflects the extraordinary relationship between the two medical pioneers. Blalock's mentorship and Thomas's unwavering dedication serve as a testament to the transformative power of human connection and the ability to overcome even the most daunting obstacles. The film serves as a poignant reminder of the countless unsung heroes of history, individuals whose groundbreaking contributions have left a lasting impact on humanity and paved the way for future generations. The cinematography and direction masterfully capture the emotional depth and complexity of the story, immersing the audience in the world of Blalock and Thomas. The performances of the actors bring the true story to life, capturing the spirit of collaboration, perseverance, and innovation that defined the relationship between Alfred Blalock and Vivien Thomas. In conclusion, Something the Lord Made is a heart-wrenching and uplifting drama that celebrates the unwavering spirit and unrelenting determination of Vivien Thomas, as well as the groundbreaking medical innovations that he, alongside Alfred Blalock, brought to the forefront of the medical community.