Patrick Soon-Shiong is a highly successful South African-born doctor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, with a net worth of $10 billion as of 2024. He is best known for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of biotechnology, particularly in cancer treatment, and for his high-profile investments in media and technology.
Born on July 29, 1952, in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, Soon-Shiong comes from a family of Chinese immigrants who fled China during World War II.
He studied medicine at the University of Witwatersrand, then moved to the U.S. to continue his education at the University of British Columbia, later completing his medical training at UCLA.
Initially trained as a surgeon, Soon-Shiong became a faculty member at UCLA, where he achieved several notable medical milestones, including performing the first whole-pancreas transplant and pioneering experimental treatments for Type 1 diabetes.
Patrick Soon-Shiong (Credit: YouTube)
In the early 1990s, Soon-Shiong transitioned from clinical practice to biotechnology, founding a series of companies that would significantly impact the pharmaceutical industry.
His first major breakthrough came with the creation of Abraxane, a revolutionary drug used in the treatment of breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers.
Abraxane was approved by the FDA in 2005 and became a key player in cancer therapy, generating hundreds of millions in annual revenue. In 2010, Soon-Shiong sold his company Abraxis BioScience, which developed Abraxane, to Celgene for $3 billion.
Soon-Shiong’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t stop there. In 1997, he founded American Pharmaceutical Partners (APP), which manufactured generic intravenous medicines.
By 2008, APP was sold to German healthcare company Fresenius SE for $5.6 billion, providing him with another major financial windfall. He also founded NantWorks, a conglomerate focused on using advanced technology to transform healthcare.
One of NantWorks’ flagship projects, NantHealth, provides cloud-based data services aimed at revolutionizing cancer care by rapidly analyzing genetic data from tumors.
Patrick Soon-Shiong (Credit: Pinterest)
Soon-Shiong’s medical endeavors have not only focused on treatment but also on prevention and healthcare data.
He founded several other companies, including NantOmics, which aims to develop cancer drugs based on the protein kinase inhibitors, and NantEnergy, which works on developing clean energy solutions using zinc-air battery technology. In 2015, his company NantKwest launched the largest biotech IPO in history at the time, raising $2.6 billion.
Soon-Shiong’s contributions extend beyond healthcare. In 2018, he purchased The Los Angeles Times and The San Diego Union-Tribune for nearly $500 million, making him one of the few Asian-American media owners of major U.S. newspapers.
Additionally, his ventures in the tech world include early investments in Zoom (prior to its global success during the COVID-19 pandemic), as well as stakes in AccuRadio and Wibbitz, further diversifying his business portfolio.
An advocate for healthcare reform, Soon-Shiong has worked with various government bodies, including advising the Obama and Trump administrations on health policy and cancer treatment strategies.
He founded the Healthcare Transformation Institute with Arizona State University and the University of Arizona to promote a new integrated approach to health care delivery in the U.S. He has also been a key figure in the development of cancer vaccines and other cutting-edge medical treatments.
In addition to his professional achievements, Soon-Shiong is a noted philanthropist, having donated millions to various causes, including medical research and education.
He has invested in health initiatives both in the U.S. and abroad, such as NantAfrica, a venture aimed at expanding vaccine development on the African continent.
On a personal note, Patrick Soon-Shiong is married to former actress Michele B. Chan, and they have two children.
The family resides in Los Angeles, where Soon-Shiong has been recognized as one of the richest people in the city and among the wealthiest doctors globally.
Cam Ward is a former professional Canadian hockey goaltender whose career in the National Hockey League (NHL) earned him significant fame and financial success.
With a net worth of $10 million as of 2024, Ward’s wealth stems from his successful career with the Carolina Hurricanes, as well as his international achievements and endorsements throughout his career.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Cam Ward was born on February 29, 1984, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Ward’s hockey journey began in his home country, where he played for the Red Deer Rebels in the Western Hockey League (WHL) from 2000 to 2004.
His performance in the WHL earned him a spot in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Lowell Lock Monsters from 2004 to 2006.
NHL Career: The Carolina Hurricanes
Ward was drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round of the 2002 NHL Draft with the 25th overall pick. He made his NHL debut in 2005 and became the Hurricanes’ starting goaltender soon after.
Cam Ward (Credit: YouTube)
Key Highlights from Ward’s NHL Career
- 2006 Stanley Cup Champion: Cam Ward’s defining moment came in 2006 when he helped the Carolina Hurricanes win the Stanley Cup Championship. Ward’s exceptional performance in the playoffs earned him the prestigious Conn Smythe Trophy as the NHL Playoff MVP, making him the first rookie starting goaltender to win the Stanley Cup since Patrick Roy in 1986.
- NHL All-Star: Ward was selected to the NHL All-Star Game in 2011, marking another high point in his career.
- International Achievements: Ward also represented Canada on the international stage, winning a Gold Medal at the 2007 World Championships and a Silver Medal at the 2008 World Championships.
- Retirement: Cam Ward retired from the NHL in 2019 after spending his entire career with the Carolina Hurricanes. He was a reliable goaltender, known for his strong performances during the regular season and especially in high-pressure playoff games.
Career Earnings and Salary
Throughout his NHL career, Cam Ward earned substantial income from his contracts with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Over the years, he signed several lucrative contracts, with his most notable deal being a 6-year contract worth $37.8 million signed in 2007. This contract made him one of the highest-paid goaltenders at the time.
Ward’s total career earnings from salary, signing bonuses, and performance incentives are estimated to be in the range of $50 million, though his net worth is currently calculated at $10 million, accounting for his savings, investments, and other financial ventures.
Sources of Cam Ward’s Wealth
- NHL Contracts: As mentioned, Ward’s substantial income came from his contracts with the Carolina Hurricanes, including his 6-year deal and other performance-based bonuses throughout his career.
Cam Ward (Credit: YouTube)
- Endorsements: As a prominent NHL player, Ward likely had several endorsement deals with sports brands, equipment companies, and other businesses looking to capitalize on his public profile, although specific details of these deals are not widely publicized.
- Post-Retirement Ventures: After retiring from professional hockey, Ward has remained involved in the sport in various capacities, including commentary and media appearances, though he has kept a relatively low profile compared to some other former NHL stars.
Personal Life and Lifestyle
Cam Ward is known for being private about his personal life, but he is often seen supporting the Carolina Hurricanes and other hockey-related events.
During his playing days, he was regarded as a professional and team-first player, and that reputation has helped him transition into post-hockey life with relative ease.
He has also been active in philanthropic endeavors, supporting various causes, including those related to youth hockey and the community.
