Since I qualified as a doctor I have had the privilege of treating many patients. Although all are special and their treatment memorable, a few stand out because of particular virtues. Arthur was one such patient.


From our first encounter it was clear to me that he was devoted to Lyn and Elaine and that his family was everything to him. He loved life and embraced transplantation completely. With confidence and enthusiasm he went through surgery and always complied without complaint with the strict post operative regime of immunosuppression and attendant complications, cardiac biopsies and coronary angiography studies.

Arthur was a happy, contented man. He realised all the blessings he had received in life and focused on these. His cup was either full or half full and getting fuller. It was never empty.

He was always cheerful when we met and, aside from his love for Aston Villa, I found him to have great insight with regard to the workings of the heart, surgery and drug therapy.

It was inspirational to see Arthur with his special girls – Lyn and Elaine. They were so united and lived for each other. Team Whitfield was a favourite at Harefield. I am not surprised that Arthur’s last words were to Elaine telling her how much he loved her.

I am so sorry not to be at the funeral today but I am addressing the American Thoracic Society. If the Heart is the seat of emotions, It is no surprise that Arthur was given two hearts

Professor Brendan Madden, Professor of Cardiology, St George's Hospital, London.