The Life and Legacy of Patrick Soon-Shiong: A Trailblazer in Medicine and Business

Patrick Soon-Shiong is a renowned medical doctor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist whose groundbreaking work in the fields of cancer treatment, biotechnology, and healthcare has made him a global figure. Known primarily for his invention of Abraxane, a revolutionary cancer drug, Soon-Shiong’s impact extends far beyond his scientific contributions. His entrepreneurial journey has led him to establish numerous successful companies, including NantKwest, NantHealth, and ImmunityBio, while also investing in media ventures and holding significant stakes in prominent organizations such as the Los Angeles Lakers. Throughout his life, Soon-Shiong has remained committed to advancing medical innovation and improving the quality of life for individuals around the world.

Born in 1952 in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, Soon-Shiong developed an early interest in science and medicine. His passion for the human body and its complexities led him to pursue a medical degree at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. After completing his medical education, he moved to the United States to further his career in medicine. Soon-Shiong’s journey in the U.S. would see him work at some of the country’s most prestigious medical institutions, including UCLA, where he conducted important research in the field of pancreatic cancer. It was during his time at UCLA that Soon-Shiong’s drive to innovate in cancer treatment began to take shape.

Soon-Shiong’s most notable achievement came in the form of Abraxane, a chemotherapy drug he developed for the treatment of cancer, particularly pancreatic cancer. Abraxane was groundbreaking because it combined a chemotherapy drug, paclitaxel, with albumin, a protein found in blood. This novel formulation allowed the drug to be more effective and less toxic than previous treatments. Abraxane became a blockbuster drug, generating billions of dollars in revenue and significantly improving the lives of patients with pancreatic, breast, and lung cancers. Its success positioned Soon-Shiong as a leading figure in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.

Soon-Shiong’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop at the creation of Abraxane. In 2008, he sold his company American Pharmaceutical Partners for $8.3 billion, followed by the sale of Abraxis Bioscience, the company he founded to develop and market Abraxane, in 2010 for a total of $6.4 billion. With these transactions, he amassed significant wealth, which he would go on to use to fund other medical ventures and expand his influence in various industries. Soon-Shiong’s ambition was not limited to just developing life-saving drugs; he sought to revolutionize the entire healthcare system through technology and innovation.

In 2015, Soon-Shiong took his cancer drug maker NantKwest public, and the following year, he brought his biotechnology company NantHealth to the public markets as well. NantKwest, which focused on immuno-oncology therapies, aimed to harness the power of the body’s immune system to fight cancer. NantHealth, on the other hand, sought to improve healthcare by integrating data analytics and artificial intelligence with patient care to provide more personalized and efficient treatment. Both companies represented Soon-Shiong’s vision for the future of healthcare, where cutting-edge technology and medicine come together to solve some of the most pressing challenges in modern medicine.

Soon-Shiong’s ambitions also extended to the realm of media. In 2018, he made headlines by acquiring the Los Angeles Times and the San Diego Tribune for $500 million. This move was seen as an effort to revive the struggling newspaper industry and ensure the preservation of quality journalism in an era of digital disruption. Soon-Shiong, a long-time advocate for truth and transparency, was determined to use his resources to strengthen the role of the press in society. His purchase of these media outlets underscored his belief in the importance of informed citizens and a free press as pillars of democracy.

In addition to his work in biotechnology and media, Soon-Shiong has made significant contributions to the sports world. As a major stakeholder in the Los Angeles Lakers, he has had a hand in shaping the future of one of the most successful franchises in the NBA. His investment in the team further exemplifies his diverse portfolio of interests and his commitment to excellence, whether in the fields of science, business, or sports.

Soon-Shiong’s focus on health and innovation did not wane even in the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic. In May 2020, his company ImmunityBio was selected for the U.S. government’s “Operation Warp Speed” program, which aimed to accelerate the development of a COVID-19 vaccine. ImmunityBio, which specializes in immunotherapy, played a crucial role in the race to develop a vaccine to combat the virus. Soon-Shiong’s leadership and his company’s scientific expertise were critical in helping to bring a vaccine to market in record time.

Beyond his business and scientific accomplishments, Soon-Shiong is also a dedicated philanthropist. He has donated millions of dollars to medical research and institutions, including UCLA, where he established the Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research. Through his philanthropy, Soon-Shiong has worked to support groundbreaking research in fields such as cancer, diabetes, and regenerative medicine, helping to advance the frontiers of science and medicine for future generations.

Patrick Soon-Shiong’s life and career are a testament to the power of innovation, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His contributions to the fields of medicine, biotechnology, media, and philanthropy have not only transformed lives but have also paved the way for future advancements in healthcare and technology. From his invention of Abraxane to his leadership in the fight against COVID-19, Soon-Shiong has proven time and again that he is a visionary capable of shaping the future for the betterment of all,