Jeremy Silverstein paid tribute to his late father, Dr David Silverstein, at The Nairobi Hospital, recalling the impression he made on his family, friends, colleagues, and the wider community. Dr Silverstein, a renowned Kenyan cardiologist, died on September 13 at the age of 82, after a medical career spanning more than four decades. Jeremy described his father as an inspirational figure whose work ethic, dedication to medicine, and adventurous spirit shaped the lives of those around him.
Dr Silverstein was best known for serving as the personal physician of former President Daniel arap Moi for 42 years, beginning in 1977 when Moi was Vice President and continuing until his death in 2020. He also treated prominent figures, including former South African President Nelson Mandela and former Attorney General Charles Njonjo. His career saw significant contributions to the development of cardiology in Kenya, including helping establish the region's first cardiac catheterisation laboratory at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Jeremy highlighted his father's extraordinary work ethic, recalling how Dr Silverstein would work through the night, including going into hospital in the middle of the night and ending up in the intensive care unit by 6:30 am. He was struck by his father's energy even at the age of 82, describing it as something he found particularly inspirational. “He had more energy than I do at the age of 29,” Jeremy said.
Dr Silverstein's medical journey began after graduating from the University of Chicago Medical School at the age of 22. He completed his residency in Seattle and served in the US military at an Air Force base in Taiwan before moving to Kenya. Jeremy remembered his father's adventurous side, particularly the journey that brought him from an immigrant Jewish family in Chicago to Kenya.
Jeremy also recalled his father's commitment to providing high-quality medical care to patients from all backgrounds. Dr Silverstein wanted to ensure that everybody, regardless of their background, had the highest standard of medical care. He dedicated his life to medicine and served as chief cardiothoracic physician for the Kenyan government and spent decades practising at The Nairobi Hospital.
Dr Silverstein's legacy extends beyond his medical achievements. Jeremy cited his father's fear of flying as an example of his willingness to take unconventional paths. Despite his fear, Dr Silverstein obtained a pilot's licence to overcome it. Jeremy said his father's adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks inspired him in many ways.
Jeremy's memories of his father are a testament to Dr Silverstein's remarkable life and legacy. He will be remembered for his significant contributions to the development of cardiology in Kenya and his commitment to providing high-quality medical care to patients from all backgrounds. Dr Silverstein's story is a remarkable one, from his early days as a young doctor to his later years as a renowned cardiologist.
Key points
- Dr David Silverstein had a medical career spanning more than four decades and served as the personal physician of former President Daniel arap Moi for 42 years.
- Dr Silverstein made significant contributions to the development of cardiology in Kenya, including helping establish the region's first cardiac catheterisation laboratory at Kenyatta National Hospital.
- Jeremy Silverstein remembered his father's adventurous side, including obtaining a pilot's licence to overcome his fear of flying.
