My past experience working at NIH and in the Montgomery County Refugee clinic helped to fortify my desire to work with these diseases and the population of clients they represent - however - it was a particular lecture I attended several years ago that grabbed my attention and increased my understanding of just how significant these diseases were and what a detrimental impact they could have on individuals and society as a whole.
That lecture was presented by Peter J. Hotez, M.D., Ph.D. When he spoke, he delivered his message with such a passion, is was almost palpable. Here was a man who truly believed in his work and one who had a clear direction on what should be done to help these people. I walked away from that lecture with a new awareness and awakening. Over time I had the opportunity to attend a few more of his lectures and each time I left feeling the same way - enlightened, and with a desire to want to do more. This is a man who truly wants to make a difference.
Below is a videocast of one of his lectures that was presented at the National Institutes of Health on April 22, 2010. This is just one of many he has given over the years. The runtime is a little over an hour.
Rescuing the Bottom Billion Through Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases
Dr. Hotez has also written a book: Forgotten People, Forgotten Diseases: The Neglected Tropical Diseases and Their Impact on Global Health and Development. It is available from Amazon.com
Finally, if you would like more information regarding Dr. Hotez, you can read his bio by visiting the Baylor College of Medicine website
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"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."
- Harriet Tubman
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