Have You Ever Heard of Patch Adams?

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A few years ago, there was a movie made with Robin Williams called "Patch Adams." It was inspired by a real man who fought and worked very hard to become a doctor against numerous odds, one of which was a doctor who set out to destroy him. The movie is absolutely wonderful but it has a special fondness to me. You see, after seeing the film, I wrote an article called "What's So Scary About Non-Conformity" and I faxed a copy to the real Patch Adams. About a week or so later, I received a handwritten letter from Dr. Adams telling me how much he appreciated the article and asking me about my poetry since I knew he liked poetry and had mentioned it. Since he doesn't use computers, as he explained in his note, he asked me to fax some. I think what impressed me the most is that as busy as his schedule is, he took the time to write a letter to someone he doesn't know simply because it's important to him to connect with others. What a very special person to have that much thought for other people. He has a clinic in West Virginia, I believe, called the Gusendheidt Institute. You see, Patch Adams is not only a doctor but a clown - the kind that puts on make-up and big red noses. He uses humor to help people get well and he's such a special man. I just had to share that story with you. I hope that is alright with everyone.