We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Wallace, Lord Wallace of Tankerness, who died in Edinburgh on 29th January 2026 following complications from surgery. A senior political figure and a dedicated public servant, Jim played a significant role in supporting improvements in aortic dissection care across Scotland.
Jim survived a type A aortic dissection in 2023. His symptoms were not dramatic, but he felt persistently unwell over several months. Following a GP referral for tests, including an echocardiogram, he was unexpectedly admitted to hospital in Kirkwall. Medical staff quickly recognised the seriousness of his condition. He was transferred by air to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and later to Edinburgh for life-saving surgery. A six-hour operation replaced the artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Jim later reflected that he may have experienced a single severe episode earlier in the year, but the pain had not returned. Without further symptoms, his diagnosis came as a shock. His story underlined the importance of listening to your body and acting on what might seem like vague symptoms.
Advocacy in Aortic Dissection Care
Following his recovery, Jim brought his voice and experience to the cause of improving aortic dissection diagnosis and care. He supported the work of the charity and helped raise awareness at national events. He also played a key role in bringing attention to this issue within the Scottish government. Jim worked closely with the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Neil Gray MSP, to encourage meaningful change across Scotland.
Jim remained actively involved in our efforts into 2025. He supported the Scottish Aortic Dissection Education Event, held at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. This event was designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of paramedics and emergency medicine professionals working across Scotland. It offered in-depth lectures, hands-on simulation and practical training in aortic dissection diagnosis and emergency response.
He took a close interest in the educational content and was committed to making sure the lessons from his own experience were translated into better outcomes for patients. By championing initiatives that improved clinical confidence and early recognition of the condition, Jim helped ensure that his experience would have a lasting impact on professional learning and public health policy.
Jim Wallace’s empathy and commitment to public good extended far beyond politics. His legacy includes the impact he made through advocacy for those affected by aortic dissection. We are grateful for his support, his partnership and his example. He will be missed deeply by all of us in the Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust.
