I Wear A White Coat: From Tribulation To Triumph: The Authentic Truth of the Black Doctor's Journey

FROM TARRED AND FEATHERED TO HOODED AND LETTERED...

The challenges that pre-exist in the African American professional health community

extend far beyond the confines of this text. The very essence of the journey,

in many cases, is tainted at inception. More often than not and particularly

with people of color, the journey is met with inferred demise at the mere stage

of oral admission in desire to pursue doctoral status.

Despite the fact that African American lineage has given rise to undeniable talent,

intelligence, and genius as that of Dr. Charles Drew, Dr. Daniel Hale Williams,

Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler and an exhaustive list of many, many others, the doors

of opportunity and access have yet to swing as far and wide for blacks to enter

medical and research-driven health professions.

The proverbial badge of honor in "the white coat" seems to exist as only

a mirage of truth until it is achieved. This symbol of excellence and stature,

garnered only by those who persevere beyond expectation, is seen as the creme'

de la creme' in the African American community. It is the quintessential

incarnation of our ancestors' wildest dreams, and the stamp of approval sought

by generations before us. Among black folk, the white coat is the banner of

hope and indignation waved valiantly in silence everyday by those shoulders

upon which it falls. Simply put - it is the epitome of grandma's dream for

familial status and respect personified.

For every budding and current black doctor seeking guidance, if ever you've wanted

to know what it takes to get in, how to stay in, and what it takes to win

consider this the blueprint.