I was watching TV which I rarely do (nothing on but brainwash). What I saw was the Montel Show and his guest was the real Patch Adams. This is the doctor the Robin Williams movie was patterned after. The surprizing thing was the length of his hair, mid-back from what I could tell tied back in a ponytail. Not only that he was involved in healthcare reform for children and trying to start hospital that cares about more than money. What a great image for longhair. Too bad that the movie did not show this. But knowing Hollywood I guess that par for the course.
Are you talking about this? [from an East-West Magazine article in 1987]
I also saw the real Patch Adams on I think Extra or some Hollywood show and I also loved his hair. He was talking about all the work he's been doing trying to get the medical field to reform and that he's been trying for years to raise money for a hospital. He also commented on the amount of money the movie made which a fraction of would have been more than enough for his hospital. I think he found the movie a mixed blessing. Yes, I agree, this man is a positive notch for all the longhairs and I was happy to see him and find his awareness, intelligence and great spirit refreshing. Do you remember the hospital's name he works out of or does anyone know where he can be reached. I would love to send him a letter finding out the status of his endeavors? He definitely deserves our support.
Chaeya
Thanks for the info =o)
Chaeya
They didn't explore it because the real Patch Adams is currently facing litigation for having petitioned for funding needed for the hospital without going through proper channels first. And he's been working on getting funding for that hospital for umpteen years. He's not gotten very far, and the way he's going about trying to fund and build the center is being questioned by a lot of people. He has incredible, noble intentions, but he's a doctor, not a financier. Currently, he gives speeches around the country and donates his fees toward building the hospital, but he also draws a $60,000-plus/year salary from the hospital foundation. He also is currently having to pay people to be on site where the building is under way, in large part to comply with zoning ordinances even though no part of the facility is functional yet, nor is it likely to be in the near future.