The extraordinary events in a doctor’s life – the miracles and tragedies which reflect the complexities of our bodies and life in its entirety – are reflected in a new autobiography by a leading Welsh doctor.
Gerwyn Elias is an experienced doctor and his autobiography gives us an insider’s view of some curious incidents: some grave, others amusing but many disastrous, such as the story of the 60-year-old who was convinced that she was expecting a baby, and the young woman who was terrified of eating after seeing her friend choke to death whilst eating chips. These harrowing stories reveal the remarkable way in which a doctor can treat his patients – physically and psychologically.
The author has experienced the joy of being able to save lives and the sadness of seeing lives lost. He discusses difficult medical matters in a straightforward manner and offers plenty of sensible advice on how to live a long and healthy life.
He advises, “There are three ways to stay healthy and help the finances of the health service: avoid overeating, excessive alcohol intake and don’t smoke. We would all live longer and feel better throughout our lives. Moderate exercise should be added as a fourth.”
Gerwyn Elias is a descendant of the Cilie poets and was also born in Ceredigion. He has enjoyed an illustrious career, winning the Gold Medal for Surgery at Cardiff Medical School, before moving on to work at a number of prominent hospitals. He worked as a GP for 34 years in Penarth.
A Doctor’s Tale is published in December by Y Lolfa and retails at £7.95.
