As Secretary General of EACTS from 2017 to 2020, Domenico set about modernising the Association and ensuring the surgical voice was heard loud and clear. At the very successful 33rd EACTS Annual Meeting in 2019, he attracted global experts to update delegates on the very latest clinical trial data. Domenico was not only a first class surgeon, he was also a passionate advocate for the fair representation of the merits of cardiothoracic surgery and recent joint statements and collaborations with other societies are a testament to his work. In 2020, Domenico was invited to give the prestigious Thomas B Ferguson Lecture at the Society of Thoracic Surgeons 56th Annual Meeting in New Orleans. The subject he chose was close to his heart: data, evidence and transparency. The title of his lecture, MEGA – Make Evidence Great Again, an indication of his sense of humour and political awareness. His passion for cardiothoracic surgery and dedication to ensuring the best outcomes for patients were evident in his surgical practice at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham and from his speeches, and the work he led at EACTS. Many colleagues will remember his commitment to mentoring less experienced surgeons, helping them become great masters and leaders. His legacy lives on.
Domenico will be hugely missed by everyone in the cardiothoracic surgical community. Our thoughts are with his partner and family, and his colleagues in Birmingham, Italy and around the world.
May he rest in peace.