The financial hardships Fluidigm encountered after September 11 were the most difficult stage for the company, says Worthington. The company needed financing quickly or it would disappear – a time that was incredibly physically and emotionally draining for him. Fortunately, the tough times were more than balanced by a number of fantastic highs, including the first major reorder, the first shipping of a complete system and the first success report from a customer, he notes.