Test-tube baby pioneer dies, aged 87
The world's first test-tube baby, Louise Brown, has led the tributes to the pioneer of IVF, who has died aged 87. Prof Sir Robert Edwards was knighted in 2011, five decades after he began experimenting with IVF. His work led to the birth of Ms Brown at Oldham General Hospital in 1978. She said he had brought "happiness and joy" to millions of people. IVF is used worldwide and has resulted in more than five million babies. Prof Edwards died in his sleep after a long illness. Ms Brown said: "I have always regarded Robert Edwards as like a grandfather to me. "His work, along with Patrick Steptoe, has brought happiness and joy to millions of people all over the world by enabling them to have children. "I am glad that he lived long enough to be recognised with a Nobel prize for his work, and his legacy will live on with all the IVF work being carried out throughout the world."
Louise Brown, born in 1978, was the first test-tube baby. Since then, more than five million children have been born through IVF. In vitro fertilisation has completely changed the prospects for couples unable to have children. Fertilising an egg with sperm outside the body and implanting the resulting embryo means infertility is no longer a certain barrier to starting a family. The technique sparked a huge ethical debate in 1978 and attracted media attention around the world
A man who has made millions of families happy due to been able to have a baby in their lives
