Dave Paddon collects and retells the stories of his parents, Sheila Fortescue and Tony Paddon. This book is a tribute to the storytellers that shaped the younger Paddon and a glimpse into the lives of frontier health care workers "scarcely comprehensible in the modern era." Published by Brack and Brine
Dave Paddon is well-known across Newfoundland and Labrador for his storytelling and recitations. Nurse Fortescue and Doctor Paddon is his ninth book. He can be found operating the English Harbour Arts Centre with his wife, Kim, regaling audiences at the Crow's Nest Officers Club in St. John's, or anywhere folks appreciate a good yarn. "Read this book if you want to learn about human beings at their best. About a love for Labrador and all its peoples. About superhuman optimism, dedication and astonishing medical miracles in one of the harshest and most beautiful places on Earth. Read this book if you want to be amazed." "This book is packed full of rich tales of bravery, tenacity, ingenuity-and perhaps the greatest survival skill of all-an enduring sense of humour." "With its treks by dog-sled through snowstorms, V1 rocket attacks, and whale autopsies, the book reveals a way of life now past, and a generosity and strength of community forged by hardship and respect." Introduction
PART I-SHEILA PADDON REMEMBERS Nurse Fortescue Reports for Duty Wartime Life Beginning with the Grenfell Mission Back to England, then North West River Harrington Harbour Marriage
PART II-LABRADOR DOCTOR, EXPANDED Wartime Letter Fly in the Ointment The Schooner Cluett Log of Maraval, 1946 Something in the Air Dog Teams Liberator, A Gift From Above Butter and Snow House Call Winter Medical Patrol, 1946-47 Winter Medical Patrol, 1947-48 Winter Medical Patrol, 1948-49 Winter Medical Patrol, 1949-50 Winter Medical Patrol, 1950-51 The Old and the New in Labrador Travel Poison Ivy Whale Autopsy The Patients
Acknowledgements Portraits Sources People and Places
