Medical maverick Hunter Doherty “Patch” Adams was presented at the Guadalajara Hospital Civil’s International Series of Medical Conferences on November 1 to discuss his renowned “laugh therapy.”
As showcased in his 1998 autobiographical film starring Robin Williams, the doctor, clown and activist has spent over 40 years innovating U.S. healthcare through the power of laughter.
“I decided at 18 that I was going to have six qualities for the rest of my life, to be an instrument of peace and justice among them: attentive, loving, cooperative, happy, funny and thoughtful,” said Adams during the conference in Guadalajara.
While medicine and treatment are oftentimes necessary to alleviate a sickness, Adams believes that happiness and creativity are also integral parts of the healing process.
At the core of Adams’ philosophy is the need to provide unconditional love to those in need.
Every year as part of his “Gesundheit! Institute,” Adams organizes a group of volunteers to travel to conflict-ridden countries to work with orphans and ailing children, all while dressed as clowns.