Dirk van Zyl was the sixth patient to undergo a heart transplant by Prof Chris Barnard and was the longest surviving heart transplant, recipient. Dirk lived for 23 years after receiving his new heart.
A resident of Cape Town, Mr van Zyl was treated at Groote Schuur Hospital, where Prof Barnard performed the first-ever successful heart Transplant. He underwent a heart transplant in 1971, at the age of 45.
The heart he received was from a coloured man who fell out of a tree, which was very controversial at the time due to the active political climate of Apartheid.
During the surgery, Dirk’s heart stopped beating, indicating to the anesthesiologist that he is in fact dead. Prof Barnard did not believe this diagnosis and managed to revive him and complete the heart surgery.
Dirk van Zyl lived a relatively normal life after his surgery. He was a very big supporter of the Heart Transplant program and always encouraged others to take the leap of faith, even though they had a 50/50 chance.
In an interview with the Associated Press on the 25th anniversary of the first successful heart transplant he said, ”If you don’t go for the transplant, there is no chance.”
At the age of 68, Dirk had a stroke which left his left side paralyzed, and on the 7th of July 1994, he passed away this nursing home.
Dirk van Zyl was a true embodiment of the medical miracle pioneered by Prof Chris Barnard. He was given a chance at life, one he wouldn’t be able to have without the sacrifice of his donor, and the tireless work from Prof Barnard and his dedicated team.