Egyptian businessman Elshahat Mahmoud Abdelaziz Mahmoud (L3) and his Chinese friend (R3) take a photo with medical workers at the hospital. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

Egyptian businessman Elshahat Mahmoud Abdelaziz Mahmoud never expected his business trip to China would become a life-changing experience.

On June 2, while waiting for his return flight at Hangzhou International Airport, the 49-year-old trader began experiencing severe chest pain. Within the hour, airport staff arranged for him to be emergency transferred to the Qiantang branch of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, which is affiliated with the Zhejiang University School of Medicine.

A remote diagnosis confirmed an acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction — a severe, life-threatening type of heart attack. Despite the language barrier — Elshahat speaks only Arabic — doctors coordinated with his Chinese friend to secure consent from his wife in Egypt.

In just 48 minutes, doctors performed a successful coronary stent surgery after discovering a full blockage in his right coronary artery. Elshahat is now recovering and ready to return home.

Grateful for the swift care, he gave a heartfelt thank you, saying, "I've never seen such high-level medical care. Thank you for saving my life!"

Doctors advise international travelers with heart issues to undergo checkups before long trips and carry emergency medical information for rapid response in critical moments.