Manche’ was born in Sliema in 1957 into a music and medical family. In 1974 he began his medical course at the Royal University. In 1977 he left for the UK to complete his studies at Westminster Medical School in London. After a few years he took up British citizenship and decided on a career in cardiothoracic surgery. He rotated through several London teaching hospitals and completed his training as a specialist in Sheffield. For two years he worked as a full time laboratory researcher at Rayne Institute, London during which time he was awarded the Junior Syntex prize for original work. The following year he undertook training in Arizona and California and then established a successful heart transplant programme at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, London. Manche’ returned to Malta in 1995 with the aim of establishing a comprehensive local adult cardiothoracic practice. Prior to this date many Maltese patients had to travel abroad for treatment. During the past years this service has steadily grown and treatment for heart and lung disease is now accepted as standard. His self dedication, gentle bedside manner and meticulous post-operative follow-through of each individual case have earned him the profound gratitude of all his patients and their families and respect of all his colleagues. Having lived with his grandfather, a keen pianist, music has remained an integral part of his life and Alex enjoys playing solo as well as with friends on a regular basis.
He is married to Mary Andrew, a nurse educator.