On November 13, the third annual “Medical Ethics Light” award ceremony was held in Shanghai, where the “Medical Ethics Model” award was presented to Dr. Zhao Zhiqing, who is not only a distinguished physician but also a patient suffering from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis).
At the award ceremony, Zhao Zhiqing was introduced as a renowned physician skilled in vascular surgery, particularly in the treatment of carotid artery diseases, where he has achieved internationally advanced levels. Despite his worsening condition, he continues to navigate using a wheelchair, maintaining his dedication to work, outpatient services, mentoring young doctors, and conducting academic and public health lectures.
Zhao Zhiqing is a professor in the vascular surgery department at the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changhai Hospital). As reported by The Paper on November 14, Zhao has made remarkable contributions to the field of medicine. He serves as the honorary director of the Department of Surgery and Field Surgery at Changhai Hospital, as well as the deputy chairman of the Vascular Surgery Branch of the Shanghai Medical Association, and is a member and secretary of the Vascular Surgery Group for the entire military.
In 2018, Zhao was diagnosed with ALS, commonly known as “Lou Gehrig’s disease.” Even so, he has persistently engaged in clinical work. Since 2022, he has been reliant on a wheelchair but maintains a positive attitude and a strong spirit, continuing to serve his patients.
Despite experiencing declining health, occasional breathing difficulties, and even needing supplemental oxygen, Zhao refuses to give up his medical and teaching responsibilities. He is committed to visiting his department daily, guiding young doctors in their work, and actively engaging in public health education, focusing on the topic of “Diagnosis and Treatment of Carotid Plaque” through numerous public lectures. His edited books, including “Vascular Surgery Rehabilitation Therapy” and “Carotid Body Tumor,” have received wide acclaim.
“Life’s meaning lies not in its length but in its breadth. Stephen Hawking left his light of life for astrophysics; Cai Lei left his light for drug development. I want to leave my light for my patients,” Zhao expressed.
Born in Shandong in 1965, Zhao Zhiqing graduated from the Second Military Medical University (now the Naval Medical University) in 1983. He furthered his studies in Germany in 1998 under the guidance of internationally recognized vascular surgery experts, Professor Muller-Weifel and Professor Dieter Raithel. With over 40 years of medical practice, he has dedicated himself to both the fundamental and clinical research of vascular diseases, specializing in carotid artery conditions and complex vascular cases.
Zhao has pioneered several surgical techniques in the field, including the first endovascular exclusion for abdominal aortic aneurysms and thoracic aortic dissections in China, as well as innovative methods for carotid endarterectomy and stenting, significantly improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
His contributions have been recognized with multiple awards, including the Silver Award for Talent Cultivation in Military Academies, the title of National Renowned Physician for Outstanding Achievements, the Second Prize for National Science and Technology Progress, and various awards from the Shanghai Medical Association and other institutions.
Through his unwavering commitment, Zhao Zhiqing serves as an inspiring figure, demonstrating resilience and dedication to his patients and the medical community, even in the face of personal challenges.