About the pressure to conform: A tribute to Dr Henry D. Messer

Abstract

Introduction: Dr. Henry D. Messer was a pioneering figure in neurosurgery and LGBT rights activism in the USA during the 1950s, a time of significant societal stigma. Despite facing discrimination due to his sexual orientation, Messer's resilience led him to become one of the first openly gay neurosurgeons in the United States.

Research question: The authors aimed to explore the life and contributions of Dr. Henry D. Messer to the medical and neurosurgical community.

Materials and methods: The authors performed a review of the literature as well as the works and the publications of Dr. Henry D. Messer.

Results: After overcoming professional setbacks linked to his identity, Messer became chief of neurosurgery at Wayne County General Hospital in 1976. His activism was instrumental in advocating for LGBT representation within the medical community. His 1974 chapter "The Homosexual as Physician" was critical for medical literature, challenging stereotypes and calling for greater acceptance of homosexual physicians. Messer's work coincided with broader LGBT rights movements, including the Stonewall riots, laying the groundwork for future advocacy efforts. The article also highlights Messer's scientific contributions, which includes 10 peer-reviewed publications in the field of neurosurgery.

Discussion and conclusion: Messer's legacy continues to influence contemporary discussions on diversity in medicine, emphasizing the importance of representation for underrepresented minorities in neurosurgery. By reflecting on his journey, this article focuses on the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ and female neurosurgeons today, advocating for a more inclusive and innovative field that enhances patient care through diversity.

Keywords: Discrimination; Diversity in neurosurgery; Henry D. messer; History of neurosurgery; LGBTQ+ neurosurgeons; LGBTQ+ surgeons.

Fig. 1

Henry Davis Messer (1927–2014) (right) with his partner, Carl House (left). File made available by Equality Michigan through the LGBT Free Media Collective. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Commons:LGBT_Free_Media_Collective.

Fig. 2

Henry D. Messer at the Triangle Foundation. File made available by Equality Michigan through the LGBT Free Media Collective. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Commons:LGBT_Free_Media_Collective.

Fig. 3

Dr Henry D. Messer posing with Senator Debbie Stabenow and President Barack Obama. File made available by Equality Michigan through the LGBT Free Media Collective. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Commons:LGBT_Free_Media_Collective.