KARACHI: Dr. Zaara Shirazee, post-fellow in congenital & paediatric cardiac surgery at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Karachi, has been awarded the Mark R. De Leval Fellowship by the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) — one of the world’s most prestigious recognitions in cardiac surgery.
This international fellowship took Dr. Shirazee to the Medical University of Vienna, Austria, where she trained under leading experts in Pediatric and Congenital Cardiac Surgery, learning the delicate art of mending the tiniest, most fragile hearts. Each day in Vienna was a lesson in precision, patience, and humanity — in understanding not only anatomy, but also the extraordinary strength of children and families who face congenital heart disease with unwavering hope.
For three transformative months, she immersed herself in mastering complex surgical repairs, advanced perioperative care, and global standards of excellence that continue to shape how lives are saved worldwide.
“Receiving the Mark R. De Leval Fellowship isn’t just an award — it’s a reminder of why I chose this path: to serve children born with heart defects, to keep learning, and to carry forward the legacy of those who turned surgery into an art of compassion,” said Dr. Zaara Shirazee.
Expressing her gratitude, she added: “To the AATS Board of Directors — thank you for believing in my mission. To my mentors, colleagues, and the patients who teach me daily — this achievement is ours. Because every tiny heart deserves a chance to beat strong.”
NICVD congratulates Dr. Zaara Shirazee on this remarkable international recognition — an honor bestowed on only one congenital cardiac surgery fellow worldwide each year.
“We take immense pride in Dr. Shirazee’s achievement,” said NICVD’s administration, “and in our institute’s continued contribution to nurturing future leaders in cardiac care.”
This milestone highlights NICVD’s global impact and commitment to excellence in paediatric and congenital cardiac surgery — inspiring young surgeons across Pakistan to pursue medical innovation with empathy and dedication.
