Jack Hirsh, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, is an outstanding scientist whose fundamental inquiry into the biological pathways in arterial and venous thrombosis has led to major advances in this field. In the area of thrombosis and its inhibitors, his work is among the top one percent in the world. His clinical work has set the standards in the developed world for the diagnosis and management of venous thromboembolic disorders. His contributions have benefitted untold numbers throughout the world. Hirsh is a distinguished scientist and basic researcher who has been able to apply the knowledge he has developed to both the prevention and management of a major health problem.