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<p>In this episode, Tom Catena, a missionary physician who runs Mother of Mercy Hospital in the Nuba Mountains in Sudan, describes some of his extraordinary work as the only doctor in a remote, war-torn region of Africa. In terms of individual lives saved, you could argue that there is no other person on the front lines doing more than Tom. Additionally, we explore the manner in which the Nuba people die, which is in striking contrast the ubiquity of chronic disease and self-harm in the west, despite the extreme poverty and unimaginable suffering experienced by the Nuba people. Lastly, we discuss the lessons to be gleaned from the Nuba people, who despite their suffering, live so harmoniously, happily, and resiliently. To support Tom's mission please visit <a href="http://www.amhf.us/">www.amhf.us</a>.</p> <div>We discuss:</div> <div> <ul> <li>Background, medical training, and early days of missionary work in Africa [<a href="">9:00</a>];</li> <li>Tom arrives at Mother of Mercy Hospital in the Nuba Mountains of Sudan, civil war breaks out, and his staff evacuates [<a href="">15:45</a>];</li> <li>Learning surgery on the job and earning the trust of the community [40:45];</li> <li>The amazing people of Nuba, and why Nuba feels like home to Tom [51:30];</li> <li>NY Times article about Tom's work, and Tom's new venture on the board of Aurora Prize Foundation bringing awareness and funding to other missionaries doing great work [1:03:30];</li> <li>Tom's mind-blowing ability to deal with chaos while seeing hundreds of patients per day [1:15:45];</li> <li>The most afraid Tom has ever been, and how he copes with the emotional trauma of his daily experiences [1:23:30];</li> <li>The basic tools, technologies, and medicines that Tom is lacking that could save many lives [1:33:30];</li> <li>The logistical challenge of helping Tom's hospital, and what Tom really needs [1:39:15];</li> <li>Diseases in the adult population [1:42:30];</li> <li>Living without possessions, finding meaning, and being a missionary [1:59:30];</li> <li>Sense of purpose, happiness, and suicide: Contrasting the US with Nuba [<a href="">2:11:00</a>];</li> <li>Other than donations, is there a way people can help Tom and other similar causes? [2:19:15];</li> <li>The food in Nuba [2:22:30];</li> <li>Tom's annual bout of malaria [2:27:30];</li> <li>Patients that Tom will never forget [2:29:45];</li> <li>Resources for people wanting to get involved in helping Tom's work [2:34:45];</li> <li>Peter tells a story that defines Tom [<a href="">2:36:00</a>]; and</li> <li>More.</li> </ul> <p> <span> Learn more at <a href="http://www.peterattiamd.com/"><span><u>www.PeterAttiaMD.com</u></span></a></span></p> <p> <span>Connect with Peter on <a href=""> <span> <u>Facebook</u></span></a> | <a href=""> <span> <u>Twitter</u></span></a> | <a href=""> <span> <u>Instagram</u></span></a>.</span></p> </div>
Actionable Insights
1. Embrace “Browner Pastures”
Seek out challenging environments or situations where help is most needed, rather than always pursuing comfort or “greener pastures.” This mindset, exemplified by Dr. Catena, drives significant impact by focusing on areas of greater struggle and less privilege.
2. Prioritize Service Over Safety
In situations of extreme danger, make decisions based on a commitment to duty and the needs of those you serve, even when personal safety is at risk. This reflects a deep sense of purpose and faith, as demonstrated by Dr. Catena choosing to stay in Nuba.
3. Practice Non-Judgmental Leadership
When facing difficult, individual decisions (like evacuating a dangerous area), give team members full latitude to choose what’s best for them without judgment. This fosters an environment of trust and respect for personal circumstances, as shown by Dr. Catena allowing his staff to leave.
4. Adhere to “First Do No Harm”
When considering medical interventions, especially in resource-limited settings, prioritize the principle of “first do no harm” and only proceed if you genuinely believe you can improve the patient’s health. This guides ethical and effective decision-making when tools and expertise are limited.
5. Cultivate Acceptance of Mortality
Develop a mindset that accepts mortality and imperfect outcomes as a natural part of life, especially in challenging circumstances. This can reduce shock and improve coping with bad news or difficult situations, mirroring the perspective of people in Nuba.
6. Communicate Honestly in Palliative Care
In situations where little medical intervention is possible, communicate directly and honestly with the patient’s relatives (considering cultural norms) about limitations. People in challenging environments often value human connection and are more accepting of difficult news, rather than demanding miracles.
7. Support Podcast for Exclusive Content
Become a member to support the podcast and gain full access to exclusive show notes, downloadable transcripts, participation in Ask Me Anything (AMA) episodes, and special deals on products Peter Attia loves. This provides deeper engagement and practical benefits while ensuring the podcast remains ad-free.
8. Watch “The Heart of Nuba”
To gain a deeper understanding of Dr. Tom Catena’s work and the challenges he faces, watch the documentary “The Heart of Nuba” or other linked videos. This is a specific recommendation for learning more about the impact of his mission.