Charles Kao Ph.D.

The Nobel Prize in Physics 2009
Co-nobelist: Willard S. Boyle, George E. Smith

Prize motivation: "for groundbreaking achievements concerning the transmission of light in fibers for optical communication."

Medal Cash and Charity

In his later years, unfortunately, Charles Kao had Alzheimer’s disease. He was unable to speak or read. He was being cared for by his wife Gwen Kao. She stated that his Nobel Prize money would be used for his medical expenses. In 2010, she used his Nobel Prize money to found The Charles K. Kao Foundation.

“The Charles K. Kao Foundation for Alzheimer's Disease Limited (the "Foundation") is a registered non-profit making charity organization founded in 2010 by the late Professor Charles K. Kao and his wife, Mrs. Gwen Kao. The Foundation aims to raise the public awareness of Alzheimer’s disease / dementia, educating the general public on brain health care strategies, enhancing care and support to Alzheimer’s patients, their families and caregivers. The Foundation also aims to encourage and facilitate co-operation amongst the various organizations, such as universities, government departments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to enhance resource allocation and education, thereby further benefitting Alzheimer's patients and their families and the support system. At the same time, the Foundation takes educating the public on dementia as its own responsibility and encourages people to face the challenges dementia brings with a positive attitude.” - The Charles K. Kao Foundation for Alzheimer's Disease Limited.