One of Houston’s elite group of doctors who were integral to the development of the Texas Medical Center as one of the world’s finest medical institutions has died.
Dr. William Fields, a long-time professor of neurology at both Baylor Medical School and the University of Texas Medical School in the Medical Center, died Sunday at his Houston home at the age of 90. Dr. Fields was a pioneer in medical research and testing of the role of aspirin in the treatment and prevention of strokes. In the late 1970’s, Dr. Fields directed a major research project at 10 medical centers that established that aspirin may reduce minor stroke symptoms and also the likelihood of catastrophic strokes. Dr. Fields also was the first to assess the clinical value of carotid endarterectomy, which is the surgical removal of the lining of diseased or blocked arteries.
Dr. Fields was a colleague and dear friend of my late father, Dr. Walter Kirkendall, with whom he collaborated on many research projects. Through this friendship with my father, I had the privilege of knowing Dr. Fields, who was a wonderful and engaging man. Dr. Fields and my father were members of a generation of American doctors who revolutionized the purpose of medicine and health care in our society, and we all should pause and contemplate the magnificent contributions that this generation of doctors has given to each of us.
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Your little article about Drs Bill Fields and Walter Kirkendall sure brought back memories from the late 70s and early 90s. I was and still am in charge of the Graphic Communications group, than called Biomedical Communications and dealt with both chairs many times. In fact Dr Kirkendall gave me my first Polaroid MP3 camera when I set up shop in a small trailer behind Hermann. Dr Fields was a kind and well traveled man, who had a foundness for my country, The Netherlands, which he often visited and therefor we had a common interest. He even asked me to proof read his book “To and Through the Texas Medical Center” and we were able to furnish some visuals as well. As you are one of the many children of Dr Kirkendall, I hope you’ll accept this also as a tribute to him. I’ve met your Mother and a sister from Austin when I made several photographs of your Dad for the service and the Kirkendall Lecture, but I don’t believe I met you. Pausing and pay tribute is indeed in order.
Henny van Dijk
Henry, thanks for the note. I hope I have the opportunity to meet you personally. Yes, Bill Fields and Walt Kirkendall were special men. We are truly privileged to have known them.