47yo Kashif was transferred to St Vincent’s Melbourne after a large heart attack and was found to have severe coronary artery disease, requiring open heart surgery. Whilst Kashif already had some significant risk factors such as being on long term dialysis, no one could have predicted the stormy course his admission would take.
Kashif suffered a cardiac arrest shortly after his open heart surgery requiring application of a special therapy, ExtraCorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), whilst he was getting internal cardiac massage as his heart was not pumping. This machine circulated blood and oxygen around his body, effectively keeping him alive.
Over the coming days, he had multiple further heart operations to help him continue on, all amongst the uncertainty of how his brain would recover after a prolonged period of low oxygen supply. It was touch and go many times for Kashif, but he somehow soldiered on. He managed to be liberated from the ECMO machine but needed a tracheostomy inserted as his muscles had become very weak.
Fast forward 2 months later from his admission to ICU and Kashif had miraculously recovered normal brain function, complete with an incredible personality. He was breathing well for himself and his heart was strong enough to be off all infusions and machines. This photo was snapped before he transitioned to rehabilitation to strengthen his body for a return home.
He reflected that it is very strange to have so many people know about his journey, despite not being able to remember himself. He wanted to thank everyone who cared for him and was looking forward to the next part of his journey. What a journey it has been!
10 thoughts on “The man with more than 9 lives”
My name is Abdul Hameed. I’m the father of Kashif Hameed (your patient). I’m grateful to you all and the God Almighty who granted us the life and rejuvenated Kashif to health through your kind hands and His blessings. The hard work, your concern and God’s blessings combined together led to the success of Kashif in holding back the gift of Allah that was bestowed on him with courage and endless efforts.
Here in Pakistan we continuously prayed to Allah Almighty for Kashif’s health and your success. We requested all who we knew to pray for my son’s health and they prayed day and night. They enquired about his well being from the family here in Pakistan.
Thank you. Be blessed! and succeed in all cases that you deal.
Hi Abdul,
Thank you for your kind words. We wish you and your family all the very best.
Steve, on behalf of the St Vincent’s ICU team
I have had the privilege of witnessing this journey from its very beginning. Observing the exceptional dedication and skill of the St. Vincent surgeons, ICU team, and other medical staff, including doctors and nurses, has been truly inspiring. They have tirelessly battled for Kashif’s life, employing every medical resource and human effort conceivable. Kashif, demonstrating remarkable resilience, has also played a crucial role in his fight for survival. As a close friend of Kashif, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone at St. Vincent for their extraordinary efforts. Your dedication is nothing short of amazing.
Thank you very much Imran.
St Vincent’s ICU team
To all the staff who have helped Kashif with his journey.
All of you guys are stars. Absolutely stars!!!
Thank you Samar!
What a journey! Thank you to all of the staff, the doctors, nurses, rehab team and everyone else involved in helping Kashif get thru this extremely challenging time… from the bottom of my heart. You guys are amazing! Thank you for your relentless dedication and professionalism.
Thank you Usman for your kindness.
Post Surgery recovery of Kashif Hameed exhibited true care and professional approach of team at St Vincent’s ICU. It was amazing when I went to see him few weeks ago and saw him walking. We are thankful to the team at St Vincent for the service and care provided for Kashif. Also its worth mentioning that I also thank you as the visitors were always managed in the best possible way.
Thank you Abdul