Remembering Iowa's First Heart Transplant Patient

By: Claire Kellett, Anchor/Reporter

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By Claire Kellett

Story Created: Mar 18, 2010 at 8:43 PM CST

Story Updated: Mar 18, 2010 at 10:30 PM CST

NORTH LIBERTY - In June of 1985, a 25-year-old Emerson Martin became the first Iowan to have a heart transplant at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Wednesday night, Martin's heart stopped beating. He died at the age of 50.

Martin's wife and three daughters fought back tears as they talked about him Thursday night. But since so many people have followed Martin's medical journey the past 25 years, they felt they should share their sad news. At the same time, they are remembering the dad they loved so dearly.

Martin watched too many dance recitals, softball games, and show choir performances to count. That's what comes with being the father of three girls, but Mandy, Ashley, and Emily made sure their dad had time for his favorite hobby.

"He loved racing. He was a big Earnhardt fan."

Martin taught his daughters more than they needed to know about cars, but he was also a powerful example of perseverance.

"He had so many struggles, but he just kept going. I think that is why this is so hard because it seems like he could have just kept going," says Martin's daughter Ashley Smith.

In 1985, Martin underwent Iowa's first heart transplant. Doctors gave him a 50-50 chance of surviving the first year, but he lived another 25 years.

"That launched a very successful program, and he did consider himself a pioneer in the field of cardiac transplant," says Martin's wife Traci.

Martin faced numerous health challenges, including two hip replacement surgeries and kidney cancer, but the North Liberty father always made it back home to his girls.

"That is what has been the hardest. He wasn't in the hospital. He wasn't lying in bed sick. But I think this is the way he would have wanted it. It was quick. His heart just stopped," says Mandy Shepard.

Martin was relatively healthy when he suddenly stopped breathing last night at home. His family is still in shock, but they know their father will always be with them.

"We know he's up in heaven with his favorite race car driver and with Grandpa Jim. They are all going to be looking down on us and help us get through it," says Shepard.

After his death, Martin donated his eyes. His family says that shows his belief in and appreciation of organ donation.

Iowa Donor Network

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