Trieste is mourning the loss of Dr. Margherita Monai, a groundbreaking pediatric surgeon who dedicated her life to the care of children at the IRCCS materno infantile Burlo Garofolo hospital. Dr. Monai passed away Thursday morning at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and surgical expertise that spanned five decades. Her passing marks the end of an era for the hospital and the community she served.
Born in Tricesimo, a town with Carnian roots, Dr. Monai pursued her medical studies in Trieste. After specializing in pediatric surgery in Verona, she began her career at the Burlo Garofolo hospital in 1976. At that time, she was a rarity – one of the few female surgeons in Italy and the only woman in her department. Her dedication and skill quickly established her as a vital member of the medical team, providing critical care to countless young patients.
Dr. Monai’s impact extended beyond the operating room. Her husband, Dr. Ezio Alberti, a former cardiologist, recalled an instance where a parent, unfamiliar with the changing roles in medicine, asked where the “doctor” was while Dr. Monai was explaining their child’s condition. “In those years, surgeons were almost exclusively men,” Dr. Alberti shared, “but she knew how to navigate the hospital environment, treating children with infinite gentleness and skillfully managing the dynamics within the department.” He emphasized her ability to listen and offer advice with kindness, maintaining strong relationships with colleagues and nurses throughout her career.
Throughout her long tenure at Burlo Garofolo, Dr. Monai remained committed to the hospital and its patients. She began her work under the guidance of Professor Walter Galluzzi, a renowned surgeon, and went on to treat generations of children with competence and care. The hospital, formally known as IRCCS materno infantile Burlo Garofolo, is a leading pediatric research and care institution in Italy, and was recognized as the top Italian institute for scientific research quality by Times Higher Education. Learn more about the hospital’s history and mission.
Beyond her professional life, Dr. Monai was a devoted mother and a compassionate humanitarian. She and Dr. Alberti had two children, Giorgio Alberti, now a professor and pro-rector at the University of Udine, and Elisabetta Alberti, a mosaic artist. They similarly welcomed a young man from Chad into their family, providing him with a home and supporting his education, culminating in a degree in electrical engineering.
The couple shared a deep love for the mountains, owning a home in Sappada. Dr. Alberti recounted that just last week, he took his wife there for one final visit. Dr. Monai was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October 2024, and despite undergoing six months of chemotherapy and multiple surgeries, the illness proved relentless. “The disease was a hardship,” Dr. Alberti shared, “but I will always remember her smile and immense loving nature.”
Dr. Antonio Giannotta, a former colleague and lifelong friend, also paid tribute to Dr. Monai. “Margherita began her surgical activity under the guidance of Professor Walter Galluzzi, a surgeon of international renown,” he noted. “She cared for generations of children with competence and love, leaving a profound void among her colleagues who collaborated with her over the years to alleviate the suffering of young patients.”
Dr. Monai’s passing is a significant loss for the medical community and the families whose lives she touched. Her pioneering spirit as a female surgeon, combined with her unwavering dedication to her patients, will continue to inspire future generations of medical professionals. The Burlo Garofolo hospital, where she dedicated her career, stands as a testament to her commitment to pediatric care in Italy.
As the medical community reflects on Dr. Monai’s remarkable career, the focus will undoubtedly turn to continuing her legacy of compassionate and innovative pediatric surgery. The IRCCS Burlo Garofolo hospital remains at the forefront of pediatric research and care, and will continue to strive for excellence in honor of Dr. Monai’s contributions.
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Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about a medical professional and is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
