Our History
From New Zealand to London, Marks & Spencer to plastic surgery, and Guinea Pigs to gangsters, the Blond McIndoe Foundation has a colourful and inspiring history — beginning with Sir Archibald McIndoe.
Sir Archibald McIndoe — Beginnings
Born in New Zealand in 1900, Sir Archibald McIndoe had a strong interest in surgery from an early age.
After moving to London in his thirties, his career began to flourish. He worked closely with his cousin, the pioneering plastic surgeon Sir Harold Gillies, and bought into his practice — right up until the outbreak of the Second World War.
Transforming Burns Treatment in East Grinstead
As one of only four experienced plastic surgeons in Britain, McIndoe was posted to the recently rebuilt Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead, where he founded a Centre for Plastic and Jaw Surgery treating RAF casualties.
It quickly became clear that this marked a turning point in medical care. The hospital saw injuries of unprecedented volume and severity. Working alongside Canadian plastic surgeon Ross Tilley, McIndoe devised new ways of treating burns and rebuilding tissue, evolving earlier techniques and revolutionising both treatment and rehabilitation.
A Lifeline for Injured Airmen
During this time, McIndoe formed The Guinea Pig Club, a social and support group for his recovering patients.
His close friends Neville and Elaine Blond became deeply involved, opening their home to many of the injured airmen and providing support well beyond medical care.
Continuing the Legacy
After the war, McIndoe, together with Neville and Elaine Blond, began planning a new research institute at the Queen Victoria Hospital to continue his pioneering work.
Sadly, McIndoe died in his sleep on 11 April 1960, aged 59, and did not live to see the opening of the Institute the following year.
