Dr. Victor Chang's Legacy Lives On in 2023

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Who was Dr. Victor Chang?

Dr. Victor Chang (1936-1991) was a pioneering Australian cardiac surgeon who performed the nation's first successful heart transplant in 1984. He also developed an artificial heart valve and an artificial heart assist device, which saved many lives and improved the quality of life for countless patients. He was widely regarded as a visionary and a humanitarian, who dedicated his life to advancing medical science and helping those in need.

What did he achieve in his career?

Dr. Chang was born in Shanghai, China, and moved to Hong Kong with his family when he was 12. He studied medicine at the University of Sydney and trained as a surgeon in England and the United States. He returned to Australia in 1972 and joined St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney as a cardiac surgeon. He soon became the director of the hospital's heart transplant unit, where he performed many groundbreaking operations, including the first heart-lung transplant in Australia in 1986. He also established the National Heart Transplant Program, which coordinated the donation and distribution of organs across the country.

How did he impact the world?

Dr. Chang was not only a brilliant surgeon, but also a passionate innovator and educator. He founded the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute in 1994, which continues to conduct world-class research on cardiovascular diseases and treatments. He also mentored many young doctors and scientists, who went on to become leaders in their fields. He received numerous awards and honors for his achievements, including the Companion of the Order of Australia, the highest civilian honor in the country.

How did he die?

Dr. Chang was tragically murdered on July 4, 1991, by two men who attempted to extort money from him. His death shocked and saddened the nation and the world, and sparked a public outcry for justice and organ donation awareness. His killers were arrested and sentenced to prison, but one of them was released on parole in 2018. Dr. Chang's legacy lives on in his family, his colleagues, his patients, and his institute, which bears his name and carries on his mission.