Why read JFK's Secret Doctor?

Book cover of JFK's Secret Doctor: The Remarkable Life of Medical Pioneer and Legendary Rock Climber Hans Kraus

Book description

Set against the grand panorama of twentieth-century world events, it captures the remarkable life and spirit of climbing and medical visionary Hans Kraus (1905-1966). Kraus was taught English by James Joyce, escaped Nazi dominated Europe, and was JFK's secret back specialist. A legendary rock climber known for hair-raising ascents on…

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Why read it?

1 author picked JFK's Secret Doctor as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Dave Horowitz

Author

Although not exactly a book on emergency medicine, I recommend this book for several reasons. First, as a rock climber, Hans Kraus is one of my personal heroes. He was an early pioneer of free climbing in New York’s Shawangunks (the mountains of my youth). But secondly—and more relevant here—he was considered the grandfather of sports medicine. His philosophy of less is more rehab, has stuck with me in theory and in practice.

Oh, and he was also JFK’s secret “back doctor”. A fascinating read about a fascinating man.

From Dave's list on for and about emergency medicine.