The world’s most famous heart surgeon, the Egyptian Professor, Sir Magdi Yacoub, has transplanted more hearts than anyone else. To the countless people whose lives he has transformed and saved, he is a hero. Professor Yacoub was originally inspired in his work by his father, who was a general surgeon.
Now 70 years old, Professor Yacoub still retains his vibrant energy and extraordinary enthusiasm for his career. For 43 years, he has dealt with desperate patients whose combination of poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and stress overload have caused them to ask for his help. Consequently, he is very aware of the role of good nutrition and regular exercise in maintaining good health. He eats well and swims early each morning.
Professor Yacoub’s life is always hectic. When a donor heart has suddenly been found, then an operation has to take place quickly. He works long hours; he says there are no regular hours for a heart surgeon, as the surgery must take place when it needs to be carried out.
For relaxation, Professor Yacoub enjoys gardening and even grows orchids. One dream of his is to go to the Amazon one day to see the rare plants there. He is patron of Chain of Hope charity, which aims to take medical expertise to the developing world. Specialist teams give their time free and travel all over the world to places such as Mozambique and Jamaica to train local cardiologists and surgeons in techniques that will save lives. This charity also brings needy children to the West for necessary heart surgery.