Patch Adams

If we're gonna fight a disease, let's fight one of the most terrible diseases of all-- indifference. Now, I've sat in your schools and heard people lecture on transference... and professional distance. Transference is inevitable, sir. Every human being has an impact on another. Why don't we want that in a patient/doctor relationship? That's why I've listened to your teachings, and I believe they're wrong! A doctor's mission should be not just to prevent death... but also to improve the quality of life. That's why you treat a disease, you win, you lose. You treat a person, I guarantee you, you win, no matter what the outcome. Sir, I want to be a doctor with all my heart. I wanted to become a doctor so I could serve others... and because of that I've lost everything... but I've also gained everything. I've shared the lives of patients and staff members at the hospital. I've laughed with them. I've cried with them. This is what I want to do with my life. And as God is my witness... no matter what your decision today, sir... I will still become the best damn doctor the world has ever seen. Now you have the ability to prevent me from graduating. You can keep me from getting the title and the white coat. But you can't control my spirit, gentlemen. You can't keep me from learning. You can't keep me from studying. So you have a choice-- you could have me as a professional colleague... passionate... or you can have me as an outspoken outsider, still adamant. Either way, I'll probably still be viewed as a thorn. But I promise you.