The multimillion-pound donation will fund the latest da Vinci 5 surgical system, significantly enhancing the Trust's renowned robotic-assisted surgery programme. Royal Surrey is recognised as a leading centre in the UK for such procedures, having already completed over 10,000 robotic-assisted operations.
Prof Murray, celebrated for his innovations in Formula One car design, underwent robotic-assisted surgery in 2024 after being diagnosed with adenocarcinoma. His positive experience with the technology and his subsequent recovery inspired the generous gift.
Robotic-assisted systems augment surgeons' capabilities, enabling complex procedures through minimal incisions with enhanced precision and control. This approach typically leads to faster patient recovery, shorter hospital stays, and improved outcomes.
Prof Murray's cancer was detected during a routine endoscopy, a decade after his brother passed away from the same disease. The operation was performed by general surgeon Prof Shaun Preston.
Louise Stead, Group Chief Executive of Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, expressed profound gratitude, stating the donation will enable thousands of patients to benefit from advanced treatment for years to come.
During a visit on Monday 12 October, Gordon and Stella Murray saw the new surgical robot and toured the Trust's upcoming Cancer and Surgical Innovation Centre. In recognition, Gordon Murray helped name the Trust's robotic systems, including the new da Vinci 5, named 'George' after his friend George Harrison, and others named after fellow Beatles members.
Prof Murray commented, "I was so impressed with Prof Shaun Preston and the team, the technology and my post-operative recovery, that donating a da Vinci 5 robot seemed to be the best way to say thank you."
