Dr. John Dentel is a pediatric heart surgeon that performs procedures to improve the quality and quantity of life of congenital heart disease patients. He also operates on those with advanced heart failure, including the implantation of mechanical circulatory assist devices and heart transplantation.

Transplants, however, require hearts donated from those who have passed away, and Dr. Dentel appreciates the sacrifice those families have made to assist his patients. “All those individuals connected to the work I do hold a special place in my own heart,” said Dentel, whose fellowship training came at Indiana University and Washington University/Seattle Children’s Hospital. “If the families would want to meet, I would love to show appreciation for their donation.”

Dentel says his gratitude comes from his upbringing, with parents that taught him to remember where he came from, be thankful for what he has, and to help others. “The culture at Joe DiMaggio, where everyone wants to do the right thing for patients, fits my values.”