Few individuals have shaped the myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) field as steadily and thoughtfully as Dr. Richard T. Silver, MD, FACP, whose career exemplified the power of patience, independence, and long‑term scientific commitment. Over decades, he helped move the field forward by asking difficult questions early, standing by promising science long before it gained consensus, and contributing to standards of research, care, and collaboration that continue to shape how MPNs are understood today.

Inside the Orlando Convention Center, a room as vast as an airline hangar was bathed in green light from numerous two-story-high screens. Thousands of hematology researchers filled the space, waiting for a marquee lecture.