In the realm of medical professionals dedicated to global service, Doctor Peck stands as a remarkable figure. Dr. James Peck, a seasoned general surgeon and adjunct professor of surgery at Oregon Health and Science University, embodies the spirit of humanitarianism. Earlier this year, at the age of 72, this dedicated surgeon, husband, and father ventured into the Nuba Mountains of Sudan, one of the most isolated and impoverished regions on Earth. His mission? To provide crucial medical care, stepping in for the esteemed Dr. Tom Catena, a long-term volunteer renowned for his unwavering commitment to the Nuba people.
Finding a replacement for Dr. Tom is no easy task, yet Doctor Peck undertook this challenge with exceptional dignity, grace, and profound compassion. This is the story of Dr. Jim Peck, a man driven by a deep-seated desire to serve where few are willing, motivated by a lifetime of inspiration and a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need. Let’s delve into the experiences and motivations that define Doctor Peck and his extraordinary journey of service.
“My name is Dr. Jim Peck,” he begins, “and I am 72 years old.” The call to serve in the Nuba Mountains came directly from Dr. Tom Catena, who needed someone to cover his responsibilities while attending the Aurora Prize Ceremony in early June. For Dr. Tom, leaving the Mother of Mercy Hospital in the Nuba Mountains without a surgical replacement was simply not an option. This marked Doctor Peck’s second time serving at this vital hospital, a testament to his dedication and willingness to return to challenging environments.
Born in San Diego, Doctor Peck pursued his undergraduate and medical degrees at the prestigious University of California at San Francisco (UCSF). His pursuit of surgical excellence led him to Los Angeles County – University of Southern California Medical Center (LAC-USC) Medical Center, a renowned trauma center, for his general surgery residency and vascular fellowship. After completing his rigorous training, Dr. Peck established his practice in Portland, Oregon, in 1981, where he has remained a pillar of the medical community ever since. His academic contributions include serving as an adjunct professor of surgery in vascular surgery, critical care, and trauma departments at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), shaping future generations of surgeons.
Dr. Jim Peck with one of the nurses at the Nuba Hospital
Dr. James Peck alongside a dedicated nurse at the Mother of Mercy Hospital in the Nuba Mountains, Sudan, highlighting the collaborative spirit of medical missions.
Doctor Peck’s path to humanitarian work in the Nuba Mountains began in 2015. He recounts being deeply moved by Nicholas Kristof’s article, “He’s Jesus Christ,” a powerful profile of Dr. Tom Catena and his unwavering service. Further solidifying his resolve, Dr. Peck attended a talk on Global Health given by Kristof at The Oregon Health and Science University. Serendipitously seated next to Kristof’s mother, Doctor Peck had the opportunity to speak with Nicholas directly after the presentation. Kristof’s encouraging words, “You should get in touch with Tom. I know he could use the help of someone like you,” resonated deeply and spurred Dr. Peck to reach out.
Prior to his work in Nuba, Doctor Peck had already gained valuable experience through multiple missions with Doctors Without Borders, equipping him with the skills and understanding necessary for challenging medical environments. He felt prepared to support Dr. Tom’s crucial work. Describing his time in the Nuba Mountains, Doctor Peck acknowledges the demanding nature of the work but emphasizes the profound fulfillment he derives from serving this community.
Dr. Peck on the Remarkable Dr. Tom Catena
When asked about Dr. Tom Catena and his work, Doctor Peck’s admiration is palpable. “Well, Tom is one of the finest human beings I’ve ever met. He is as close to a ‘saint’ as they come. He loves the Nuba people deeply. I don’t think he will ever leave them without proper medical care.” Doctor Peck highlights Dr. Catena’s exceptional perseverance and unwavering commitment to providing the highest quality care to every patient, regardless of circumstances.
Doctor Peck elaborates on the sheer volume of Dr. Catena’s workload: “Tom does between ten to eighteen surgeries every elective surgical day, and that does not include the many emergency operations. He truly is a remarkable person.” Beyond his surgical skills, Dr. Peck admires Dr. Catena’s personal qualities, describing him as “very calm, a good listener, and never without a sense of humor.” With genuine humility, Doctor Peck concludes, “All I can say is, I wish I was more like him.”
A series of photos featuring Dr. Tom
A tribute to Dr. Tom Catena, showcasing his years of dedication and service in the Nuba Mountains, an inspiration to fellow humanitarian surgeons like Doctor Peck.
A History of Humanitarian Missions: Doctor Peck’s Global Footprint
Doctor Peck’s commitment to mission work extends beyond the Nuba Mountains. He shares his extensive experience in various challenging locations: “In the past, I’ve worked for Doctors Without Borders in armed conflict zones. I have participated on a faith-based mission with people in the Dominican Republic. I have done two missions in Cameroon and recently in Cox Bazar, Bangladesh with Medical Teams International.” These diverse experiences underscore Doctor Peck’s adaptability and dedication to serving in a wide range of contexts. Typically, his missions range from six weeks to three months, demonstrating a significant commitment of time and expertise.
Inspiration and Giving Back: The Driving Force Behind Doctor Peck
Delving into the origins of his inspiration, Doctor Peck credits influential role models in his life. His father, a general practitioner, instilled in him the value of service by volunteering at orphanages in San Diego and Tijuana. Doctor Peck recounts the post-World War II era, where his father’s dedication addressed the needs of numerous orphaned children.
Another profound influence was his Aunt Mavis, who worked with Mother Teresa and embodied a life of selfless service. Doctor Peck recalls her remarkable commitment: “She spent some time working for Mother Teresa, and she actually once walked with Mother Teresa from Los Angeles to Tijuana for a fundraiser. She was a remarkable person.” Aunt Mavis persistently encouraged young Jim to consider how he would “give back,” planting the seeds of humanitarian service early in his career.
Despite the demands of surgical training and raising a family, Doctor Peck never forgot his aunt’s words. He recounts a pivotal conversation: “I remember I had not just begun my surgical internships, when my Aunt Mavis started asking me, ‘When are you going to start giving back?’ I would say ‘Aunt Mavis, I’m working with indigent patients at a county hospital, I’ve got four kids and I need to get them educated. But, once I get that done I will start giving back’.” True to his word, as soon as his last child completed schooling, Doctor Peck embarked on his first mission to Liberia in 2002, during their civil war.
The gratitude of the patients he serves fuels Doctor Peck’s ongoing commitment. “Overall, I appreciate how grateful all the patients I work with are. I witness the good we can do. So, that continues to inspire me to do mission work.”
Dr. Jim Peck with some of his many patients
Doctor Peck providing compassionate care to patients in need, illustrating the direct impact of his humanitarian efforts and the gratitude he receives.
Doctor Peck echoes Dr. Tom Catena’s philosophy of utilizing one’s skills for the benefit of others. He acknowledges his privileged life in Portland and the ease with which he could choose leisure over service. However, he emphasizes the importance of witnessing global realities and the stark disparities that exist. To impart this perspective, Doctor Peck even brought his grandchildren to Africa: “I’ve actually brought my two oldest grandchildren to Africa. I wanted them to see what most of the world lives like. Two-thirds of the world live under the poverty line, and I want them to know that the way we live is not the norm. In the scope of the entire world, it’s the exception. We live in ‘Disneyland’ by comparison.”
The Transformative Power of Mission Work: Personal Reflections from Doctor Peck
Mission experiences have profoundly impacted Doctor Peck. He describes the “reverse culture shock” upon returning home, a heightened awareness of the unwarranted complaints and abundance in his everyday life. “When you return, you have what is called ‘reverse culture shock’. You can’t put up with anyone complaining because everyone you see has so much. Even when you do simple things like listen to the radio – you hear all the complaining. You realize how unwarranted so many of our complaints are.”
This contrast deepens his appreciation for the resilience and spirit of the Nuba people. “In a way, it makes you appreciate how wonderful these Nuba people really are. You come to understand how much energy they need to just survive. I just appreciate them, and I’m always a much better person when I return from a mission. I come home humbled.” Mission work, for Doctor Peck, is not just about giving; it’s a transformative experience that fosters personal growth and a deeper understanding of the world.
A series of photos featuring Dr. Jim Peck with patients and staff
Doctor Peck interacting with patients and medical staff, emphasizing the human connections and collaborative nature of his mission work in diverse healthcare settings.
A Supportive Partnership: Doctor Peck’s Wife Joan
Doctor Peck acknowledges the crucial support of his wife, Joan. He describes her independent nature, forged during his demanding medical training. “My wife Joan, is a very independent person. We got married just out of college. When she graduated, I had just started medical school. During medical school and residency you’re gone quite a bit. Especially during my residency, general surgery residents were on call every third night. I think that independence is very important for someone who is married to a surgeon.”
Joan understands the profound importance of his mission work and offers unwavering support. Doctor Peck shares a lighthearted glimpse into their relationship: “Sometimes when I do two mission trips back to back, she jokes ‘Happy days are here again!’ I think she jokes with me to make me feel better about being away for so long. I appreciate that and I know how lucky I am that she’s my wife.” Her understanding and humor are essential to enabling Doctor Peck’s continued service.
Dr. James Peck on vacation with his family
Doctor Peck cherishing moments with his family during vacation, highlighting the importance of work-life balance and the support system that enables his humanitarian endeavors.
Dr. Jim and his family celebrating Christmas!
Doctor Peck and his family celebrating Christmas, showcasing the personal side of a dedicated surgeon and humanitarian, balancing professional commitments with family life.
Doctor Peck’s daughters and their husbands, illustrating the strong family bonds that underpin his life of service and dedication.
A Call to Service: Doctor Peck’s Message to Fellow Physicians
Doctor Peck offers compelling advice to physicians contemplating mission work. He emphasizes the profound personal and professional rewards: “This kind of work is probably the most gratifying thing I have ever done. But more importantly, there is such a great need for it around the world. There are so many people that would benefit from your skills and your training.” He encourages physicians at any stage of their career to consider giving back, highlighting the immense gratitude of those they serve.
Beyond the act of giving, Doctor Peck emphasizes the reciprocal nature of mission work: “Also, I have found that I learn more than I actually teach. I go on these missions to teach and train people. But, end up learning more because there is always some illness, or some disease that I’ve never seen before. Even with illnesses that I know, I often have to get creative and be flexible because I don’t have the same equipment I have back home. It’s really amazing what you can learn when you have to be flexible.” He shares a powerful anecdote of improvising peritoneal dialysis using a cellphone consultation, demonstrating the resourcefulness and adaptability required in resource-limited settings and the unexpected learning opportunities they present.
Inspirations and Hopes for the Future: Doctor Peck’s Vision
Dr. Tom Catena remains a significant inspiration for Doctor Peck, alongside countless others dedicated to long-term global service, particularly those he worked with at Doctors Without Borders. He also cites Jim Brown, a surgeon committed to training African surgeons to serve their own communities through Pan African Academy of Christian Surgeons (PAACS), as a profound influence. And finally, Doctor Peck reveres his father as his ultimate “white knight” and enduring inspiration.
Looking towards the future of the Nuba people, Doctor Peck expresses a universal hope: “Well, I hope for the same thing that all of us hope for. That they are no longer persecuted by the government. That they can begin to till their land, and begin making a life for themselves. That we, Tom, and whoever is willing, can come and help – can teach all of the nurses, all of the clinical officers, and all of the medical doctors to take care of their own people at a high level.”
Children from the Nuba Mountains
Children of the Nuba Mountains, representing the community served by Doctor Peck and Dr. Tom Catena, and embodying the hopes for a peaceful and healthy future.
Doctor Peck believes in the possibility of a brighter future for the Nuba people, acknowledging the long and challenging road ahead. He commends CMMB’s efforts in developing protocols and resources to empower local healthcare providers. “I truly appreciate CMMB’s work towards making these hopes come true – developing protocols, developing better instrumentation to help these people learn. I find that the clinical officers I teach are very enthusiastic, they really do want to learn, they just need some help along the way. Similarly, I find that the nurses really care about their patients, and they just need some guidance on how to get things done.”
He concludes with a realistic yet optimistic outlook: “It’s a long term project, it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. But, it is possible and I think it can happen.” Doctor Peck’s story is a powerful testament to the enduring impact of individual dedication, the transformative nature of humanitarian service, and the unwavering hope for a healthier and more equitable world, one patient at a time.
Mother of Mercy Hospital
Mother of Mercy Hospital in the Nuba Mountains, a beacon of hope and healing, symbolizing the commitment of Doctor Peck, Dr. Tom Catena, and countless others to providing essential medical care in underserved regions.
