Every Life Has a Story and This Is Mine

Book excerpt: Jack Arthur Pritchard, M.D., was one of the most eminent medical figures of the 20th Century — a scientist trained in pharmacology, a physician trained in reproductive medicine, and an authority on the complications of pregnancy. As its second chairman, he breathed life into the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UT Southwestern Medical Center and gave it academic distinction. He was the architect of the Family Planning Program in Dallas, Texas. And, he was senior author/editor of four editions of John Whitridge Williams' textbook, Obstetrics — the “bible” on obstetrical care. Every Life Has A Story And This Is Mine is the personal memoir of the physician-scientist who introduced science to the practice of obstetrics and gynecology. In the course of his 44-year career, he taught and inspired generations of physicians. His evidence-based approach to medicine revolutionized the practice of obstetrics and gynecology and touched the lives of women everywhere. Yet, he never forgot that his patients (most of whom were uneducated and indigent) were women with names and stories of their own to tell. All you had to do was listen. Every Life Has A Story And This Is Mine preserves the original 2001 text of Dr. Pritchard's autobiography. Editorial additions by Judy Wagers are clearly identified. And, photographs and footnotes enhance the reading experience. As you read the serendipitous story of his life, you will hear the voice of Jack Arthur Pritchard, M.D. — physician, scientist, teacher, and humanitarian.