Chicago Doctor Becomes Confidant to Kenyan President, Dies at 82

Dr. David Silverstein, a Jewish cardiologist from Chicago who became a close confidant of Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi, passed away today at the age of 82. Silverstein arrived in Kenya over five decades ago and not only served as Moi's personal physician but also emerged as a leader of Nairobi's Jewish community.

His unique relationship with Moi extended to Israel, with the two traveling together to the country. Over the years, a personal bond developed between them centered on Israel, Judaism, and the Bible. Following Moi's death in 2020, Silverstein was among the eulogists at his funeral, concluding with a prayer in Hebrew for the Christian president he had accompanied for decades.

In 2023, Silverstein published his memoir, "Heartbeat: An American Cardiologist in Kenya," detailing his life, medical career, and extraordinary years alongside President Moi. He described his passing as a loss for himself, the Jewish community in Nairobi, Kenya's healthcare system, and the Moi family, remembering him as a doctor, friend, community leader, and bridge between worlds for many years.