Renowned Taiwanese Singer Tank Undergoes Life-Saving Heart-Liver Transplant

Tank, the well-known Taiwanese singer, recently faced a life-altering event as he received a simultaneous transplant for both his heart and liver. This complex operation took place at the Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, and is recognized as one of the most challenging procedures in the field of organ transplantation. Such operations require precise management and collaboration among various medical disciplines, with only a few hospitals globally equipped to perform them.

After the surgery, which he underwent to address a severe genetic condition, Tank shared his emotional response on his Weibo account, expressing relief and gratitude for the incredible outcome. The artist, who gained popularity in 2006 with his successful album "FIGHTING," faced significant health issues stemming from inherited hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which was revealed during a performance when he collapsed on stage. After having a pacemaker implanted, doctors cautioned him about the life-threatening risks of straining his heart while singing, which led him to step away from his musical career for some time.

Despite making efforts to find effective treatment, including visits to various hospitals, Tank's health continued to decline. Tragically, he lost both his sister and aunt to complications related to the same genetic disease. By late March 2024, doctors determined that Tank's health had worsened considerably, as he was suffering from multiple severe health issues including heart failure and liver cirrhosis. Due to the combination of these conditions, medical professionals concluded that he needed a combined organ transplant to survive.

Before his surgery, Tank expressed urgency in making the most of his time. He dedicated six days to write new music and performed at a concert in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, as well as a tour in Taiwan, in what he described as potentially his final performances. Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated further, leading to severe symptoms that left him unable to perform basic daily functions.

However, hope arrived when he received a transplant offer from a brain-dead donor on November 21. The surgery, involving teams from various medical specialties, lasted an impressive 12 hours. In the wake of this complex procedure, he faced several post-operative challenges, including managing graft function and the risks associated with immunosuppression.

Reflecting on the experience, Tank mentioned a deep connection to his donor, stating, "From that day forward, we became one person," highlighting the shared bond created through the gift of life. Finally, on April 7, he announced his discharge from the hospital with gratitude toward his homeland and the medical team that supported him through this pivotal chapter in his life.