Pulmonary hypertension is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, which leads to damage to the right side of the heart. The condition can lead to death from heart failure within a few years. Research has increased the survival and quality of life of people with pulmonary hypertension. This podcast describes the work of mid-19th century creative physicians and engineers who led Sheffield’s research on pulmonary hypertension, including the pathologist, Dr Donald Heath. Independent thinking and a shared ambition to find solutions for this life limiting condition continue today leading to major medical advances.