The renowned Spanish surgeon, José Luis García Sabrido, who played a pivotal role in extending the life of Cuban dictator Fidel Castro by nearly ten years, has passed away. His medical legacy remains as notable as it is controversial due to his associations with authoritarian figures in Latin America.
Nicknamed the "miracle doctor" by Castro himself, García Sabrido was urgently summoned to Havana in 2006 when the Cuban leader faced a severe intestinal hemorrhage, bringing him close to death. While the Cuban regime kept Castro's true health condition under wraps, it was this Madrid-based physician who managed to stabilize him after several unsuccessful attempts by Cuban doctors.
His interventions allowed Castro to live almost a decade longer, during which time the regime solidified the transfer of power to his brother, Raúl Castro, effectively stalling any democratic reforms. García Sabrido's influence wasn't limited to Cuba; he also operated on Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, another authoritarian leader who clung to power until his demise.
The Role in Chávez's Medical Care
Although Chávez's initial surgery was performed by Cuban doctors, it was García Sabrido who later operated on him amid rumors of a potential colon cancer diagnosis. During his recovery, Chávez managed Venezuela's affairs from Havana, further entrenching Cuban interference in the internal matters of the South American nation and contributing to its ongoing institutional decline.
A Trusted Figure in Cuba’s Inner Circle
García Sabrido's connection with Cuba's elite began through his friendship with dancer Antonio Gades, a close friend of Fidel Castro. This relationship paved the way for him to become a trusted figure within the Castro family. He also performed surgeries on Raúl Castro and treated his wife, Vilma Espín. His discretion and loyalty granted him unprecedented access to the most exclusive circles of Cuban power.
Legacy and Ethical Controversies
While García Sabrido's medical career in Spain was distinguished—serving as the head of General Surgery III at Hospital Gregorio Marañón, pioneering liver transplants, and being a leader in cancer treatment—his name will be forever linked to his role as the physician to authoritarian leaders in Latin America.
Among his other notable patients was former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, whom he operated on for an inguinal hernia. With García Sabrido's passing, the medical world has lost a clinician whose exceptional skill was sometimes overshadowed by ethically questionable decisions made in the service of leaders who trampled on fundamental freedoms in pursuit of absolute power.
Understanding José Luis García Sabrido's Impact
How did José Luis García Sabrido contribute to Fidel Castro's prolonged life?
García Sabrido was instrumental in stabilizing Fidel Castro after he suffered a severe intestinal hemorrhage in 2006, allowing him to live for almost ten more years.
What was García Sabrido's involvement with Hugo Chávez?
García Sabrido operated on Hugo Chávez amid discussions of a possible colon cancer, playing a crucial role in Chávez's medical care during his illness.
Why is García Sabrido's legacy considered controversial?
His legacy is controversial because, despite his medical expertise, he chose to serve leaders like Fidel Castro and Hugo Chávez, who were known for their authoritarian regimes and suppression of freedoms.