Donald L. Morton Memorial Lecture: the legacy of Donald Morton: past, present and future

Donald L. Morton, MD persevered against great odds throughout his life and career. Beginning in the humblest of circumstances, he worked his way to the highest echelon of academic surgery, revolutionized surgical treatment of melanoma with innovations that rippled through the rest of oncology. His research led to dramatically improved disease staging while also decreasing morbidity. He stood as a champion of immunotherapy for many years when few others believed it would ever work. His greatest professional legacy, and the achievement of which he was most proud, is in the accomplishments of those he trained over his many years in the field.

Automated summary

Dr. Donald L. Morton achieved great success in the field of medicine, revolutionizing the surgical treatment of melanoma, improving disease staging accuracy, reducing morbidity, and advocating for immunotherapy for many years. He was most proud of the achievements of the students he trained in the field.