In the Heart of Congo

The mission to Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, begins with the inspiring story of Dr. Danny Kapend, an African doctor determined to transform the healthcare landscape for the people of Lubumbashi. As a cardiac surgeon, Dr. Kapend dreams of establishing cardiovascular surgery in the region.

In 2023, Dr. Kapend met Dr. Marcio Rufino, a cardiac surgeon from Brazil, during a fellowship. Over lunch, they discussed Dr. Kapend’s vision, which deeply resonated with Dr. Rufino and motivated him to help. Together, they sought support from CardioStart International and the Thoracic Surgery Foundation.

Subsequently, Dr. Emily Farkas, CTSNet Senior Editor—Global, Associate Director of Global Health in Surgery at the Indiana University School of Medicine, and Surgical Director at CardioStart International, along with her team, visited the University Hospital of Lubumbashi. Their goal was to assess the needs required to safely conduct cardiac surgery in the areas. They engaged in discussion about a multiyear proposal, outlining short-, mid-, and long-term goals. The next steps involve evaluating the identified challenges and developing solutions that CardioStart International can provide, as well as determining what is needed from the hospital and the government. The video concludes with footage of the operating room undergoing renovation.

Currently, there is no cardiac surgery available locally in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Establishing this service not only presents a unique opportunity to start from the ground up but also addresses a critical need in the community.

Production and editing were performed by journalist Adria Rodrigues, São Luís, Brazil.

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