Russell M. Neilson is a man that will always be remembered. He has had a powerful impact on so many people around the world. Dedicating his life to helping people, he worked as a heart surgeon and served as the president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and a loving father. (He has ten children, fifty-seven grandchildren, and 167 great grandchildren!) His joyful attitude and love for life inspired multitudes.
Russell grew up in the Salt Lake City area. In his early years he excelled in school as well as music. He met his first wife Dantzel when they were both cast in a musical production at the University of Utah. He said from that moment on he knew she was the one. Together they were able to build a family. They had ten kids: nine girls, one boy. During their young years of marriage, they faced poverty because Russell was continuing his schooling. They endured together and after 11 years of additional schooling, he graduated with a Ph.D. and worked as a cardiothoracic surgeon.
He is a world-renowned heart surgeon. He was part of teams with monumental accomplishments such as the first open-heart surgery and the construction of the heart and lung machine. For most of his career, he worked at the LDS hospital in Salt Lake City as well as the University of Utah. From time-to-time Russell traveled to perform surgeries in other places. When he took these trips, he brought along one of his children and used it as bonding time. This is a small example of the loving and caring attitude this man possessed.
Since learning about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at the age of fifteen, Russell M. Nelson was a resolute member for the duration of his life. He served many callings and when he was 93 years old, he was called as the president of the church. He was able to serve as president for seven years and eight months. During this time, he brought many new beneficial changes to the church, showed love to others all around the world, and offered words of wisdom that changed lives.
He was able to make alterations to the structure of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He asked members of the church along with others to cease referring to the church as the ‘Mormon church.’ Instead, he asked the world to call it The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He increased temple construction all over the world, allowing easier access for members. He configured our worship to be more home centered- church supported.
During his presidency he traveled to 134 countries. In many of those countries he was able to speak to the community in their native language because he spoke eleven languages! He served, taught, and loved. While he was on these travels he was able to meet with many other religious leaders like Pope Francis and Dr. Mustafa Farouk. This is an example of the genuine friendships Russell constantly created.
President Nelson publicly spoke many times in his religious career. Twice every year The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints holds a ‘General Conference.’ This is a two-day event where members listen to leaders of the church give talks. President Nelson spoke in General Conference 114 times. In his talks he has a joyful outlook on everything he teaches about. He wants his members to find joy in Jesus Christ. He highlights the importance of temples. He explained that in the temple, members can be close to God and feel peace. He also emphasizes the second coming. He explains how to prepare, and how exciting he believes it will be.
Russell M. Nelson was a very impactful person. He has not only impacted members, but everyone. He has evolved our medical world in many ways. He has saved many lives. He has not only done this through his career, but also as a church leader. Russell showed incredible love for everyone he met. He will forever be remembered.
