Dr Pashy: The silent hero behind every surgery

Dr Pashy  at the 2023 Miss South Africa Final at SunBet Arena in Pretoria.
Dr Pashy at the 2023 Miss South Africa Final at SunBet Arena in Pretoria. (Veli Nhlapo)

As the world celebrates World Anesthesia Day 2025, South Africa shines a light on one of its most inspiring medical minds, Dr Patience “Dr Pashy” Ntshani.

A renowned specialist anaesthesiologist, philanthropist, and women empowerment advocate, Dr Pashy is the quiet force in high-risk surgeries such as cardiac, vascular and neurovascular procedures, ensuring every patient wakes up safely.

“When patients go under, they entrust me with their most fragile state, their unconscious self,” said Dr Pashy. “My role is to protect, manage and bring them back safely.”

With more than a decade in critical care she’s not only a medical expert, she’s also a mentor and public health champion, paving the way for young women in medicine.

World Anesthesia Day marks the first use of anesthesia in 1846. Behind that milestone are modern heroes such as Dr Pashy, who keep the rhythm of life steady, one heartbeat at a time.


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