Gifts from the Poor

The full title is Gifts from the Poor: What the World’s Patients Taught One Doctor About Healing. It is by Glenn W. Geelhoed, M.D., with Patricia Edmonds. Published by Greenleaf Group Press, 2011. ISBN 978-1-60832-094-3. Hardback, 262 pages, $24.95.

Dr. Geelhoed has packed three or four lives into one. His academic accomplishments include being Professor of Surgery and Professor of International Medical Education at the George Washington University Medical College and being invited to medical conferences throughout the U.S. and abroad. He has traveled to over 100 countries throughout the developing world, is the founder of Mission2Heal, and has led many medical students and professionals on mission trips to the most impoverished places with the most difficult situations. He emphasizes teaching and mentoring the local folks where he goes, as well as those who come with him. Dr. Geelhoed places great emphasis on how even the poorest of the poor have valuable lessons for him and his colleagues. This book is an excellent read for anyone considering a medical mission trip — as well as a more complete insight into putting one’s Christian faith into action.