The Patch Adams is a medical drama film released in 1998 and starring Robin Williams as the title character. The film is based on the life of Dr. Hunter Patch" Adams, a medical doctor who became famous for his unorthodox approach to medicine and healing. Patch Adams was born in 1945 in Washington, D.C., and grew up in a middle-class family in Virginia. He was a bright and precocious child, and developed a love for medicine and helping others at a young age. After high school, he enrolled in George Washington University's pre-med program. However, he was soon expelled for his disruptive behavior. Undeterred, he enrolled in another college and eventually earned his medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1971.Patch Adams began his career working in a mental hospital. It was there that he developed his unique approach to medicine, which emphasized the importance of laughter and joy in the healing process. He soon opened his own clinic, the Gesundheit! Institute, which provided free medical care to the poor and underserved. The Institute was constantly in financial trouble, and Patch Adams often found himself in conflict with the medical establishment. Nevertheless, he continued to care for his patients with compassion and humor, winning the hearts of many.The Patch Adams story was adapted into a film in 1998, starring Robin Williams as Patch Adams. The film was a box office success, and helped to raise awareness of the work of the Gesundheit! Institute. Patch Adams continues to work at the Institute today, and remains committed to providing free medical care to those in need."