Author of Gifted Hands, THINK BIG, The Big Picture and Take the Risk: Learning to Identify, Choose and Live with Acceptable Risk, Dr. Benjamin S. Carson is the keynote speaker for Hackettstown Regional Medical Centers 2010 Evening of Inspiration.

In 1987, Dr. Carson gained worldwide recognition for leading a team in the successful separation of conjoined twins. The 22-hour surgery was the first of its kind to separate twins joined at the head without fatalities to either infant. Dr. Carson is the director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Carson was raised by his mother, a single parent who struggled to make ends meet, working two and three jobs at a time. He was challenged by living in poverty, receiving poor grades, exhibiting a horrible temper and
suffering from low self-esteem.

Although Mrs. Carson was only able to receive a third grade education, she always encouraged her sons to aim for excellence. To ensure that, she limited their television watching, made them finish their homework before they could go outside and play, had them read two books a week from the library and give her written reports on them.

Dr. Carsons neurosurgery work has lead to many awards and recognitions, including over fifty honorary doctorate degrees; one of CNN and Time Magazines twenty foremost physicians and scientists; one of the Library of Congresss Living Legends; and the 2008 Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the highest award a civilian can receive.

Through all his success, Dr. Carson enjoys giving back. He is the president and co-founder of Carson Scholars Fund. This fund recognizes young people from all backgrounds for exceptional academic and humanitarian accomplishments and has awarded more than $3.9 million to more than 3900 scholars. In February of 2009, his first book was turned into a movie entitled Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story and premiered on TNT.

Dr. Benjamin Carson has been married to his wife, Candy, for over thirty years and they have three sons. He attributes his success and gives thanks to God for his abilities. He still reads the Bible every day and prays before every surgery. On Thursday, November 18, 2010, you will have the opportunity to hear Dr. Carson share his inspiring story. Look for more information about this exceptional program in the next issue of Healthier Living.