The Man Who Saved George VI: The Extraordinary Story of Dr. Victor Negus

The King Maker: The Man Who Saved George VI

by Geordie Greig

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4570 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	353 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In the annals of medical history, the name Dr. Victor Negus stands tall as the man who saved the life of King George VI and revolutionized the field of laryngology.

George VI ascended to the British throne in 1936 following the abdication of his brother, Edward VIII. However, his reign was marked by a debilitating speech impediment that threatened to cripple his ability to fulfill his royal duties.

The king's stammering had plagued him since childhood. Despite years of speech therapy, the problem persisted, causing him great distress and embarrassment. As his coronation approached, the pressure on George VI to overcome his speech impediment intensified.

Enter Dr. Victor Negus

In 1937, the king's doctors recommended that he consult Dr. Victor Negus, a renowned laryngologist known for his pioneering work on vocal cords.

Negus was born in 1889 in Yorkshire, England. He studied medicine at Guy's Hospital in London and went on to specialize in laryngology. In 1921, he published a groundbreaking book on the anatomy and physiology of the larynx, earning him international recognition.

When George VI visited Negus's clinic, the doctor conducted a thorough examination of the king's larynx. He discovered that the king had a small benign growth on his vocal cords that was causing the stammering.

A Delicate Operation

Negus recommended surgery to remove the growth. However, it was a delicate operation, as any damage to the vocal cords could permanently impair the king's voice.

On June 2, 1937, Negus performed the surgery at the London Clinic. The operation was a success, and the king's stammering immediately improved.

A month later, George VI delivered his coronation speech with confidence and clarity. The nation was overjoyed, and Negus was hailed as a hero.

Revolutionizing Laryngology

In addition to saving the king's life, Negus also made significant contributions to the field of laryngology.

He developed new surgical techniques for treating laryngeal disorders, including the Negus indirect laryngoscope, which allowed doctors to visualize the larynx without having to perform a tracheotomy.

Negus also wrote extensively on laryngology, publishing several books and articles that helped to advance the understanding and treatment of vocal cord disorders.

Dr. Victor Negus

A Lasting Legacy

Dr. Victor Negus died in 1971 at the age of 81. He left behind a legacy of innovation and compassion that continues to inspire doctors and patients alike.

The man who saved the king's voice is remembered not only for his medical skill but also for his unwavering dedication to helping those in need.

Today, the Negus Laryngological Society, a professional organization for otolaryngologists, honors his memory with an annual award for outstanding contributions to the field.

The story of Dr. Victor Negus is a testament to the power of medicine to transform lives. It is a story of hope, perseverance, and the enduring legacy of those who dedicate their lives to helping others.

The King Maker: The Man Who Saved George VI

by Geordie Greig

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4570 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	353 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE