Lifelines – A Doctor’s Journey in the Fight for Public Health – Book Review

A truly incredible story of an elementary school immigrant from China who through grit, perseverance, and steely focus, and who witnesses and experiences all too many tragedies becomes one of America’s most trusted physicians and public health advocates not necessarily because she wanted to, but because she feels compelled to do so. 

Dr. Leana Wen’s deep care, empathy, integrity, pragmatism and gratitude towards her patients and the public are a consequence of her stressful upbringing, fortuitous opportunities, and individual setbacks which were complemented by the support and kindness of strangers, teachers, and mentors who took an interest in helping push and guide her.

In a very raw, candid, and personal account of her challenges growing up, becoming a patient advocate, and then ultimately a very public figure, Dr. Wen shares her personal and professional struggles as a child living in an immigrant household trying to make ends meet, seeing injustices and inequities in her adopted home, the United States, and becoming a physician, a public health commissioner, and a trusted medical analyst in a constant personal mission to help others. 

Dr. Wen’s inspiring story shows that each person has tremendous potential to do great things when given the opportunities and programs to succeed and the love of others to lift her up. 

I can’t wait to see what she does next. 

Until then, read Lifelines – A Doctor’s Journey in the Fight for Public Health and see how Dr. Wen’s story is one that demonstrates what’s possible when we help each other. Because it might just be an immigrant girl who doesn’t speak English and then becomes a doctor, who cares and reassures the public facing the worst pandemic in over a century and inspires the next generation of people to serve in the agency of others.