Or Perish in the Attempt: Wilderness Medicine in the Lewis and Clark Expedition (Lewis & Clark Expedition)
InOr Perish in the AttemptDr. Peck, an avowed devotee of Lewis and Clark, takes a new look at the myriad dangers faced by the explorers on a daily basis on their trek into the Western wilderness. What he finds is altogether revealing, instructive, and entertaining. One of the most rewarding reads of the Bicentennial! ---Dave Walter,research historian, Montana Historical SocietyOr Perish in the Attemptis a distinctly unique literary approach to the account of the Expedition of Lewis and Clark. Dr. Peck has created a vivid, amusing, and informative narrative spiked with sardonic wit that underscores his enthusiasm for the Corps of Discovery. Medical practice in the wilderness is always challenging and sometimes terrifying! You will become privy to an insider's perspective of bold men attempting to apply their primitive healing arts in the inhospitable and challenging wilderness of early America. ---Desmond Kidd, M.D.,former medical director, Yosemite National ParkDr. David Peck'sOr Perish in the Attemptingeniously combines the remarkable adventures of Lewis and Clark with the problems of health faced by their expedition. Formidable problems indeed, but the author patiently, expertly---and humorously---guides us through the medical travails of the famous journey, juxtaposing treatment then against remedy now. The result is a fascinating book that sheds new light on not only Lewis and Clark and the men they led along an 8,000-mile wilderness path, but the practice of medicine in the world they lived in. --Howard Berk,distinguished writer in residence, and director of the Creative Development Unit at the University of Georgia