How many of you remember the movie “Patch Adams?” I recently watched the movie again with someone that has it on DVD. I did not know however, it was based on a true story!
This man Dr. Patch Adams was a remarkable person. After a troubled childhood and young adulthood, He checked himself into a mental ward and it was there that he had his life altering experience. He found his true life calling, helping others. Unconventional medicine is still to this day how he is explained. He believed every doctor should be a heart specialist, a merry heart specialist that is. He believed that a happy or joyous heart could be the best medicine for curing the sick.
Patch created the Gesundheidt Institute where doctors worked for nothing or next to nothing and patients never received a bill. The whole thing funded by donations from supporters from around the world.
The web site for this miraculous organization is www.patchadams.org
I am writing this today because on this Easter Sunday, one of the most significant days of Christian belief, I truly believe people should give thanks for people like Dr Patch. His selfless act of using his medical education is not for the purpose of monetary wealth but for nothing more than the desire to help others through their most difficult times and provide the less fortunate competent medical care.
I do not consider myself to be a noble as Dr Patch Adams, though we share many beliefs and ideas. I believe in the old adage “laughter is the best medicine.” Whether it be physical disease or heavy heart, everyone can benefit from finding humor in life itself.
I have used this as many of us have to help us through difficult times and though it may not take away the pain or hurt, it affords us a moment in time to forget it.
Next time you are in pain or have a heavy heart, find those that you consider your loved ones and tell them “I need some cheering up,” and leave your mind open to a little laughter. You will not regret it!
