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 communityextend 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 particularlywith people of color, the journey is met with inferred demise at the mere stageof 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 doorsof opportunity and access have yet to swing as far and wide for blacks to entermedical and research-driven health professions. The proverbial badge of honor in "the white coat" seems to exist as onlya 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 quintessentialincarnation of our ancestors' wildest dreams, and the stamp of approval soughtby generations before us. Among black folk, the white coat is the banner ofhope and indignation waved valiantly in silence everyday by those shouldersupon which it falls. Simply put - it is the epitome of grandma's dream forfamilial status and respect personified. For every budding and current black doctor seeking guidance, if ever you've wantedto know what it takes to get in, how to stay in, and what it takes to winconsider this the blueprint.