Dr. Victor Chang Wikipedia, Death, Wife, Family, Cause of Death, Net Worth, Age

Posted by Larita Shotwell on Wednesday, April 3, 2024

Dr. Victor Chang Wikipedia, Death, Wife, Family, Cause of Death, Net Worth, Age -: Dr. Victor Chang’s life story is one of brilliance, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of humanity. In this article, we delve into the remarkable journey of a Chinese-born Australian cardiac surgeon who left an indelible mark on the medical landscape of his adopted country.

Dr. Victor Chang Bio

Full NameDr. Victor Chang
BirthdateNovember 21, 1936
Place of BirthShanghai, China
Immigration to Australia1950 – Settled in Sydney with his family
EducationGraduated in Medicine from the University of Sydney (1962)
Career StartJoined St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, in 1972
Medical SpecializationCardiothoracic Surgery
Notable AchievementPerformed Australia’s first successful heart transplant in 1984
Total Heart TransplantsOver 200 during his career
Contribution to Heart ValvesDeveloped a more affordable and accessible artificial heart valve
Research InstituteFounded the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute in 1991
Advocacy and AwarenessStrong advocate for public health education and heart health awareness campaigns
PhilanthropyEstablished the Victor Chang Foundation supporting medical research and aiding patients
FamilyMarried Ann Simmons in 1968, had three children – Vanessa, Matthew, and Marcus
Legacy RecognitionPosthumously awarded Australian of the Century and Companion of the Order of Australia (AC)
Tragic DeathJuly 4, 1991 – Shot and killed in a failed extortion attempt
Convictions for MurderChiew Seng Liew and Phillip Choon Tee Lim were convicted for his murder

Dr. Victor Chang Early Life and Education

Born on November 21, 1936, in Shanghai, China, as Chang Yam Him, Victor Chang’s early years were marked by displacement due to the Second Sino-Japanese War. In 1950, he immigrated to Sydney, Australia, where he completed his schooling and later pursued medicine at the University of Sydney.

Dr. Victor Chang Medical Career and Pioneering Achievements

After graduating in 1962, Chang embarked on a remarkable career in cardiothoracic surgery. Training at the Mayo Clinic in the United States and various hospitals in the United Kingdom honed his skills. In 1972, he joined St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney, where he made significant contributions to the field of heart surgery.

Chang’s crowning achievement was the performance of Australia’s first successful heart transplant in 1984, opening new avenues in saving the lives of heart failure patients. Over his career, he conducted over 200 heart transplants, establishing himself as a leading figure in the field.

Dr. Victor Chang Contributions Beyond Transplantation

Beyond transplantation, Chang’s contributions extended to the development of artificial heart valves. He pioneered a more affordable and accessible artificial heart valve, revolutionizing treatment options for patients globally.

Dr. Victor Chang Research and Philanthropy

Not just a skilled surgeon, Chang was a dedicated researcher. In 1991, he founded the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, a testament to his belief in advancing medical knowledge for improved patient care.

Chang’s commitment to public health education was evident in his advocacy and promotion of heart health awareness campaigns. Additionally, he established the Victor Chang Foundation, a charitable organization supporting medical research and aiding patients in need.

Dr. Victor Chang Family Life

Dr. Victor Chang wasn’t just a medical luminary; he was a devoted family man. He married Ann Simmons, a British-born nurse, in 1968. The couple had three children: Vanessa, Matthew, and Marcus. Ann played a pivotal role in establishing the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute after Chang’s untimely death.

Dr. Victor Chang Tragic Death and Enduring Legacy

On July 4, 1991, at the age of 54, Chang’s life was tragically cut short. He was shot and killed in a failed extortion attempt, sending shockwaves through Australia. Two men, Chiew Seng Liew and Phillip Choon Tee Lim, were later convicted of his murder. Chang’s funeral was a state affair, reflecting the nation’s deep sense of loss.

Dr. Victor Chang Legacy Lives On

Despite his untimely passing, Dr. Victor Chang’s legacy lives on. The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, established in his memory, continues to be at the forefront of cardiovascular research. In 1999, he was posthumously awarded Australian of the Century at the People’s Choice Awards and the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC), the nation’s highest civilian honor.

Dr. Victor Chang Age, Height, and Weight

  • Age: 54 years old at the time of his death in 1991
  • Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
  • Weight: 168 lbs (76 kg)

Dr. Victor Chang Net Worth

Dr. Victor Chang Net Worth was Estimated to be between $500,000 and $1 million at the time of his death in 1991.

Dr. Victor Chang: A National Hero

Dr. Victor Chang’s story is not just one of medical prowess but of a compassionate individual who dedicated his life to saving others. His pioneering work in heart transplantation and artificial heart valves revolutionized cardiovascular medicine.

Chang’s impact extended beyond the operating room. His commitment to research and public health, coupled with his philanthropic efforts, created a lasting legacy. His family, colleagues, and the nation mourned his tragic death, but his contributions endure through the ongoing work of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute.

Dr. Victor Chang Social Media Accounts

Conclusion

In remembering Dr. Victor Chang, Australia acknowledges not only a brilliant surgeon but a national hero whose compassion and dedication continue to inspire generations in the medical field and beyond. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.

FAQ

What is Dr. Victor Chang famous for?

Dr. Victor Chang is famous for being a pioneering Chinese-born Australian cardiac surgeon. He gained prominence for performing Australia’s first successful heart transplant in 1984 and for his significant contributions to the development of artificial heart valves. His groundbreaking work and dedication to cardiovascular research established him as one of Australia’s greatest medical heroes.

What happened to Dr. Victor Chang?

Dr. Victor Chang tragically lost his life on July 4, 1991. He was shot and killed in a failed extortion attempt near his home in Mosman, Sydney. The murder shocked the nation, as Dr. Chang was not only a highly respected surgeon but also a compassionate advocate for public health.

How old was Dr. Victor Chang when he died?

Dr. Victor Chang was 54 years old at the time of his death in 1991.

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