Eye on Health: Cardiac team performs valve surgeries during mission trip to Kenya

Caring for patients starts close to home, but the impact of that care can reach around the world. In this month’s Eye on Health from WSBT, we meet the Beacon cardiac team that traveled to Nairobi, Kenya, in May 2026 to provide life-changing heart valve surgeries for patients living with advanced heart disease. The week-long mission combined clinical expertise with compassion, and a shared belief that everyone deserves access to lifesaving care.

The group partnered with physicians and staff at Kenyatta University Hospital to perform eight complex valve surgeries. The team also shared valuable knowledge, mentored local teams and donated essential medical supplies.

“I needed to go back to the basic surgical skills, and it really deepened my gratitude towards what I have here at home, and also it increased my passion towards cardiac surgery,” said Dr. Amjad Syed, cardiac surgeon at Beacon Medical Group Cardiothoracic Surgery Elkhart. For patients who had spent years limited by their condition, the surgeries opened the door to healthier, more active lives.

Watch the story to see how Beacon caregivers are extending their mission to deliver outstanding care, inspire health and connect with heart.

Beacon Heart, Vascular and Stroke care

Beacon brings advanced heart and vascular expertise to communities across the region. Through nationally recognized specialists and strong collaboration among care teams, patients can access exceptional treatment, innovative procedures and ongoing support without traveling far from family and loved ones. Learn more