My name is Markham McReynolds. I have dreamed about becoming a doctor since high school. However the more I looked into it the more discouraged I became. Most doctors seemed overwhelmed and not overly happy. I assumed I would have to "conform" to the unhappy system. About that time I saw the Patch Adams movie with Robin Williams. It inspired me; I knew I could do something to change the system. I bought the book as soon as I could and read it. It changed my life and helped me to be a kinder and goofier person. I hoped one day I could be of help to Patch in a major way. This led me to form The Compassionate Care Group at the University of Utah. Thanks to Patch's letters and encouragement, we have had success.

We have talked to a lot of students about what they think about health care, what they think could be changed. We played "Clownin' Kabul," [the documentary film about the trip Patch and his clown friends made to Afghanistan], and soon we will start clowning classes. We hope to start a troupe that will visit hospitals regularly. We are also having a discussion of Gesundheit. Next semester we hope to start house calls, play the Hollywood version of Patch's story, and hopefully invite a guest speaker or two. If you are in the Salt Lake City area and would like to help us please e-mail us at compassionatecare@ustudents.com.

Have Fun!!
Markham