On October 22, 2023, a special commemoration exhibition was unveiled to honor the 100th birthday of Chen Haozhu, a prominent figure in contemporary cardiology in China. The exhibition, titled “A Lifetime for a ‘Heart’ — Commemoration Seminar for Academician Chen Haozhu’s Centenary,” celebrated his extensive contributions to the field.
The exhibition began with a striking display resembling an open book inscribed with his motto: “Diligently seek new knowledge, deeply contemplate to inspire creativity, and strive to achieve results.” Next to the inscription was a line drawing capturing the relentless spirit of the academicians’ dedication to his work. This event showcased several artifacts for the first time, including his graduation certificate from Minsheng School and a transcript from Southwest High School, along with a research photo album detailing heart catheter examinations and slides prepared for “Clinical Electrocardiography.”
The exhibition is divided into six sections, highlighting Chen’s life’s journey through education, medicine, teaching, research, social contributions, and family life, showcasing his outstanding contributions to the country and its people. One of the standout features of the exhibition were two artistic installations designed and donated by renowned artist Wen Jingzhou. The first, titled “Tree of Life,” symbolizes Chen’s deep academic roots and unyielding spirit of exploration. The tree, adorned with tags representing his participation in various conferences, invites viewers to reflect on his enduring passion for science and life, as well as his mentorship of future generations.
The second installation, “The Ever-beating Heart,” pays tribute to Chen Haozhu’s fervent commitment to advancing cardiology in China. Crafted from transparent materials, the installation features a mechanical structure that mimics the rhythm of a beating heart, complemented by LED lights that pulse in sync with the simulated heartbeat. Inside, it contains numerous rolls of patient electrocardiograms meticulously collected over decades—a testament to Chen’s unwavering dedication to research.
While organizing materials for the exhibition, the curatorial team noted Chen’s remarkable attention to detail in preserving his documents. His diplomas from elementary and high school, which accompanied him during difficult times, remained intact and unlost. Chen’s daughter, Chen Yun, expressed her sentiments while sorting through her father’s belongings: “The layout of his study, the arrangement of his books and materials, were all done by him personally. Every document and certificate were meticulously organized and labeled. He was truly a serious, meticulous, and organized person!”
Although Academician Chen Haozhu passed away in 2020, the spirit of his legacy remains vibrant. During the corresponding seminar, Yuan Zhenghong, Deputy Secretary of the Fudan University Party Committee, remarked, “Even though he has been gone for over four years, his spirit will always be with us, embodying both the educator’s and scientist’s essence.”
Former Chairman of the Jiangxi Provincial Political Consultative Conference, Huang Yuejin, reflected on working alongside Chen: “I never saw him lose his temper, nor did I hear him speak ill of others. His work ethic and approach to life greatly influenced my own career.”
Ge Junbo, a student of Chen and Director of the Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, recalls, “If a student cannot surpass their teacher, then the discipline cannot progress.” He emphasized that every advancement he made carries the influence of his mentor, underscoring the lasting impact Chen had on the field of cardiology.
