"Medicines That Kill: The Truth about the Hidden Epidemic"

What happens when a U.S. cardiothoracic surgeon answers God’s call to serve in Africa? In this powerful episode of HeartWise, Dr. Craig shares his journey from Tennessee to Malawi — performing complex heart valve surgeries in a hospital with no local cardiac surgeons. With over 100 life-saving procedures completed, this mission is restoring hope to young patients suffering from rheumatic heart disease. We discuss: • Why prevention still matters (even after surgery) • The rise of heart disease in sub-Saharan Africa • How exercise and muscle mass protect your heart • The miracle behind 103 surgeries and just one early mortality • What it’s like operating in Malawi — and even Benghazi This conversation will challenge your perspective on health, gratitude, faith, and global service. If you’d like to support Hearts for Mission International or learn how to get involved, visit their website to donate, volunteer, or pray. Learn more: https://hearts4mission.org ⸻ ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to HeartWise 00:35 – Dr. Craig’s Medical Journey 03:15 – The Most Rewarding Part of Cardiac Surgery 08:14 – Preventing Heart Disease: What You Can Control 10:37 – How Much Exercise Is Enough? 12:52 – Why Weightlifting Protects Your Heart 15:10 – How the Malawi Mission Began 18:05 – The Heart Crisis in Sub-Saharan Africa 21:30 – Rheumatic Heart Disease Explained 24:12 – 103 Surgeries in Malawi 27:38 – Miraculous Outcomes in a 30-Bed Hospital 33:16 – A Patient Story You’ll Never Forget 38:48 – Prayer Before Every Surgery 42:14 – What It Costs to Save a Life 43:36 – How Malawi Changed Dr. Craig 47:12 – How You Can Get Involved 49:08 – The Benghazi Mission Story About our channel Heartwise Ministries, led by cardiologist Dr. James Marcum, blends modern medicine with biblical wisdom to help you achieve holistic health. Our videos offer practical health tips, natural remedies, and spiritual insights to prevent disease and enhance well-being. Subscribe and join us in discovering how a relationship with Christ can lead to true healing and lasting wellness. Join our community Subscribe, like, and comment with your experiences or questions! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeartwiseMinistries Explore more biblical health resources https://heartwiseministries.org Stay connected Sign up for our newsletter for weekly health tips and spiritual encouragement: https://heartwiseministries.org/newsletter Books by Dr. Marcum "The Ultimate Prescription: What the Medical Profession Isn't Telling You": https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0186GC8FY "Medicines That Kill: The Truth about the Hidden Epidemic": https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008PX0JXM Follow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/HEARTWISEMINISTRIES Disclaimer: This video provides general health information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your specific health concerns.