Jean Hamburger facts for kids

Jean Hamburger (born July 15, 1909 – died February 1, 1992) was a famous French doctor, surgeon, and writer. He is especially known for his important work with kidneys. He also performed the first kidney transplant in France in 1952.

A Doctor Who Changed Medicine

Jean Hamburger was born in Paris, France. He became a very important doctor. He helped create the field of medicine called nephrology. This is the study of kidneys and their diseases.

First Kidney Transplants

In 1952, Dr. Hamburger made history. He performed the first successful renal transplant (kidney transplant) in France. This surgery took place at Necker Hospital in Paris. The patient was a 16-year-old boy named Marius Renard. He had hurt his only kidney in an accident. Marius received a kidney from his mother. The new kidney worked for three weeks, which was a record at that time.

In 1955, Dr. Hamburger created the very first artificial kidney machine. This machine could clean a person's blood when their own kidneys failed. He also made other big steps in kidney transplants. He achieved the first long-lasting success in 1953. Then, he had the first full success between twins in 1959. Later, he achieved success between people who were not twins in 1962.

Understanding Kidney Diseases

Dr. Hamburger also did important research on how the body's defense system (immune system) affects kidneys. He studied diseases where the body's immune system attacks its own healthy cells. These are called auto-immune diseases. His work helped doctors better understand and treat kidney problems.

His Family Life

Jean Hamburger married Annette Haas, who was a talented concert pianist. They had three children together. One of their sons was Michel Berger, who became a very well-known French singer and songwriter. Jean Hamburger's grandson, Raphael Hamburger, also works in music as a supervisor.

In the 1950s, Dr. Hamburger became very sick with a lung infection. He passed away in Paris on February 1, 1992. Sadly, just six months later, his son Michel Berger died suddenly.

Awards and Recognition

Jean Hamburger received many honors for his work. He was chosen to be a lifelong member of the Académie française on April 18, 1985. This is one of France's most important groups for arts and sciences. He took the place of another famous person, Pierre Emmanuel. The official ceremony happened on January 16, 1986.

He also received other important awards, including:

• Member of the Académie Nationale de Médecine (National Academy of Medicine)
• Grand officier de la Légion d'honneur (Grand Officer of the Legion of Honor)
• Grand officier de l'ordre national du Mérite (Grand Officer of the National Order of Merit)
• Commandeur des Arts et des Lettres (Commander of Arts and Letters)

See also

In Spanish: Jean Hamburger para niños