Prof. Atties Malan, the first neonatologist on the African continent: A tribute on his 90th birthday

To the Editor: I would never have endured a period of training in the USA if it hadn’t been for Atties, who had preceded me there. He was my elder brother, my mentor, and taught me the basics of survival in a strange environment, like how to buy, prepare and cook a meal! He saved me from floundering, until I was joined by my wife and family. When the time came for him to return to Cape Town, the departmental chairman pleaded with him to stay, offering generous incentives, which he declined. His response was ‘I was put on the tip of Africa for a reason, which I must now fulfil.’ And that he certainly achieved! With the help of Prof. Boet Heese he established the first neonatal unit on the continent at Groote Schuur Hospital, and ran it with the utmost professional skill. It was the most sought-after department for specialist training in the Division of Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of Cape Town. His protégés achieved numerous doctorates and went on to provide incomparable care to newborn infants throughout this and other countries.