Charles Teo is controversial, charismatic and has a radical approach to brain cancer. He believes you should never give up on human life - and time after time Teo, a doctor forced to work outside Australia - sees his patients live for years after other medicos gave up on them.
CHARLIE Teo is the go-to neurosurgeon if you have developed a worst-case scenario brain tumour. For his actions he is heralded by some as a modern-day medical superhero with a cowboy persona and a can-do attitude.
He could be Australia's most controversial doctor but not for taking life - for offering more of it.
Doctor Teo goes where others fear.
Dr Teo started his career in America when no one would employ him here in Australia. He now attracts patients from all over the world because of
The story of talented
hands
Teo has one case that stands out not just for its remarkable outcome but for the patient's extraordinary skill in another area, classical piano playing.
Teo's efforts to save and prolong the life of Sydney concert pianist Aaron McMillan are so moving that they are the root of
In 2001 the brilliant young concert pianist Aaron McMillan was diagnosed with a rare type of brain tumour and given just six weeks to live. He was just twenty-four.
He underwent emergency surgery and days later was back at the piano, preparing to perform.
His doctor was the celebrated and controversial neurosurgeon, Dr Charlie Teo. Charlie and Aaron fought his cancers against the odds, and Aaron lived -- still deeply involved in music and mentoring others -- until last year. Journalist Susan Wyndham documented their story.
Author Susan Wyndham has just written a book about Dr Teo.
The story tells the tale of the surgeon and his relationship with one of his patients, Aaron McMillan. The name of the book is Life In His Hands and it is out now.
Related links
www.cureforlife.org.au - Dr Teo is a board member of this foundation
Anger at surgeon's cutting remarks - NZ Herald
Never argue with an idiot - they'll bring you down to their level, then beat you with experience. - Jonny, VIC
Mark Vincent: What a great young man Mark is. I wish him all the luck in the world with his career. He is a true young gentleman. Thank you Sunrise for keeping us up to date with his progress
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When I first met Charlie Dec 21 2000 he looked at my x-rays of my mengioma (brain tumor) the size of a grapefriut.It was the biggest one he had seen & he told me if he didn't operate I would be dead in 6 months. After a 10hr op I am still here but suffer from epilepsy
When I first met Charlie Dec 21 2000 he looked at my x-rays of my mengioma (brain tumor) the size of a grapefriut.It was the biggest one he had seen & he told me if he didn't operate I would be dead in 6 months. After a 10hr op I am still here but suffer from epilepsy