The Recognition
Originally, I was supposed to be the sponsor for the "The Business International Award" in Berlin. But such an award needs to be more precisely defined so that the right people can apply or be nominated. Our "International Award" was dedicated to role models for leadership who have made a contribution to social change. We then specified it as "tenacity" - so it became "The Tenacity Award." When awarding the award, I was also supposed to explain why we had chosen the English word "tenacity." "Too many 'whys' - I thought as I walked to the stage. I should keep it short. "... Tenacity is the vision, courage, and initiative of a person who drives their country forward and into the future." The English word was passed on: from country to country. And the name of the proud awardee as well: Dr. Dilek Gürsoy. The first woman in Europe to implant an artificial heart.
Success Despite Poor Starting Conditions
In such moments, we do not ask ourselves "how" or "when" this person managed to realize their vision. We share in their pride over the recognition and admire everything that is said about them. Now, the tenacity of the courageous surgeon was highlighted. Her determination was rewarded. Goosebumps gripped the audience. Dr. Dilek Gürsoy did not have perfect starting conditions and yet she succeeded. She grew up as a Turkish immigrant child in Neuss. Together with Germany's heart expert Professor Reiner Körfer, she developed an artificial heart that operates without cables and an external drive system. After all, persistent are the people who make grand plans and persist in a task until they see the light at the end of the tunnel. Until the breakthrough. Days and nights are linked together by a tremendous force. Passion that drives, inspires, advises, and leads - for as long as necessary. Tenacity is an essential part of it. We need it if we want to achieve the goal. Always.
