My review of this book, which I purchased electronically from Amazon.com, is really a review of myself, my profession, and has a lot to do with surgical and trauma education as well as the intracacies of the practice of Trauma Care, Acute Care Surgery, and to some extent the modern day prac.tice of Military Medicine. It is a book about humanism in medicine, professionalism, dedication, and drive. It is also about how we as surgeons impact those around us, such as friends and family. It is an analysis of the genome of the surgeon that has dedicated their life to the putting back together those who have sustained some of the greatest challenges in medicine, certainly those that happen during odd hours and often in strange places.
This book starts out with the comment, "My name is John Pryor. L'm a surgeon. I'll be 43 next month, AND I JUST GOT KILLED." The author kept careful notes of his life and his brother, Richard, compiled these notes after his death in this most compelling book. It is a unique book which views all of his life decisions, struggles, and ultimate death. It is a dissection of the special genome of trauma surgeons, traits which are not limited to a "Y" chromosome. Such surgeons that I know have read this book at one sitting. This book is about motivation, drive, vision, and leadership. It demonstrates that goals can be met if one is focused, deliberate, persistant, and hardworking. It challenges the current 80 hour surgical work limitations for trainees.
The final chapter on "The Grief Club," is in itself worth the price of the book. Although the reader knows and is often reminded of the inevitable end, and the warning from the writer(s) that one should NOT read the chapter unless you have "need to read,", all readers are compelled to press on and learn just what impact we have on those around us, especially our families.
Most importantly, this book reminds us of our own mortality. John Pryor's death came on Christmas Day as his wife waited for the phone call which never came. Despite our ever reminder, preparations, and even predictions, the sudden and painful loss of a husband, father, brother, and friend always leaves a painful vacuum.
This book can be destined to have the same effect on society's understanding of life and death as did Elizabeth Kubler Ross's book 40 years ago ,"On Death and Dying." had on understanding the various phases of grief. In the instance of this book, we learn that we poorly prepare for that grief, even when we know it is coming.
Kenneth L. Mattox, MD
Houston
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Loading your book clubs
There was a problem loading your book clubs. Please try again.
Not in a club? Learn more
Join or create book clubs
Choose books together
Track your books
Bring your club to Amazon Book Clubs, start a new book club and invite your friends to join, or find a club that’s right for you for free.
About the author
Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
