Bill Anderson

When you first meet Bill Anderson, it’s very clear that he’s a Mathematician. A former University Professor, Bill spent 8 years analyzing clinical trials and monitoring the progress of patients who received Edwards products. In the fall of 2001, after spending years analyzing the statistical success of Edwards heart valves, Bill learned that he himself was in need of one.

Despite Bill's familiarity with the overwhelming positive data on valve surgeries, this case was different. "As a statistician, I am used to looking at average performance of heart valve patients. It’s different when it happens to me. It’s no longer statistics," Bill said.

However, his knowledge of the numbers made his decision simple. "I knew what I wanted, and my surgeon agreed: the Edwards pericardial valve."

On the morning of November 7, the Anderson family stood by as Bill prepared for surgery. Bill received the Carpentier-Edwards PERIMOUNT aortic pericardial tissue valve. Fortunately, no coronary bypass surgery was necessary. And in the days that followed, his progress surprised everyone.

"I have always had very high respect for this product, and now it’s even higher because I know its working. I know what it has done for me," Bill said.

Many valve recipients tour the Edwards facilities to see the genesis of this miracle device. But as a long time Edwards employee, Bill Anderson’s visit was unique. “The highlight of today was the actual sewing operation because I have never been that close to the sewing. And I was really interested in meeting the people who did it.”

"For all of you who work at Edwards, it’s important to remember that you are saving lives, one patient at a time. The valve you make today may go in somebody you know, may even go in you.” Bill's unexpected surgery fell on the eve of a long-planned retirement. Now, with his health restored, he has ambitious plans for the future.