Dr. Jack Copeland remarks on his decision to leave the University of Arizona:
I came to Arizona because it was a welcoming environment that I thought would provide me with the freedom to do things that others had not done. I felt I could “have fun” trying new things that would benefit patients. I now have the same feeling about UCSD.
I had a number of excellent opportunities to leave Tucson, but chose not to leave because I was committed to programs and patients. I have no regrets about those commitments.
I will miss my patients. They have been some of the sickest and bravest souls I have ever seen. I am inviting all of them to come to my San Diego clinic if they want.
Lately, we have had exciting things happening. On Monday (the 7th), I changed out a total artificial heart that had been in place for 9 months. This had never been done. Three weeks ago, we were given the best young investigator award in Boston at the 6th International Pediatric Circulatory Support Meeting. This was for work we have reported on a series of children dying of dilated cardiomyopathies. With LVAD support, 73% of those babies had recovery of their native hearts. This is a paradigm shift, that these children no longer need to be thought of as transplant candidates, but may keep their own hearts. The medical community has been very reluctant to accept this since it goes against all current dogma. This information has been accepted for publication in the Journal of the American Society for Artificial Organs and also in the Journal Artificial Organs.
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In San Diego and more specifically, at the UCSD Cardiovascular Center in La Jolla and at San Diego Children’s Hospital, my job will be more focused. I am going to try to start heart transplant and mechanical circulatory support device programs at both hospitals.
The budget cuts and administration changes at U of A have changed the environment, no doubt. But, in 33 years at the U of A, I have seen that it is a resilient institution. Presidents, Vice Presidents, Deans, and Department Chairmen have come and gone many times and budgets have fluctuated during my tenure. I’m sure things will get better.
The CT section of the U of A will be under the leadership of Michael Moulton, MD a very able surgeon with the help of senior surgeon Gulshan Sethi, MD who has been with me for over 20 years. I have confidence that they will keep the program strong.
As for retirement, it’s way too early. I have a new wife and an extremely cute dog (Pete). If God is willing, I want to keep working for as long as I can. I do love my work, but I love my family more and I plan on dedicating my life and my work to them.
