Vivien Thomas was an African American surgical technician and researcher known for his groundbreaking work in the field of cardiac surgery. He played a crucial role in developing the first successful surgical procedure for treating congenital heart defects, particularly the Blalock-Taussig shunt, alongside renowned surgeon Alfred Blalock at Johns Hopkins Hospital in the 1940s. Despite facing racial discrimination and limited recognition during his career, Thomas's contributions significantly advanced medical science. He later became the first African American to hold the title of instructor in surgery at Johns Hopkins, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations in medicine and research.