Patch Adams seminar on living with joy

Patch Adams, the American doctor, clown and activist came to visit Damanhur June 21 - 22, 2010. He participated in a discussion with Damanhurian doctors and health care providers to share experiences and perspectives on holistic health care and his dream of a hospital based on fun and friendship. Patch also visited the Temples of Humankind and some nucleo communities of Damanhur before leading the seminar "How to Live a Life of Joy" at Damanhur Crea.

Patch Adams at Damanhur Crea

Patch Adams talks about Damanhur

During the seminar, translated to Italian by Cristina Finotti, Patch guided an enthusiastic group of around 300 participants in exercises of playfulness, expression, friendship, gratitude and celebration. With humor and candor, he shared his life story, how he came to choose optimism and happiness, tips on how to never have a bad day again, and his passion for the work of the Gesundheit! Institute. This community of holistic doctors and staff offer free health care as revolutionary, compassionate action, and emphasize equality and mutual respect in the context of their service and everyday life. He and his collaborators have treated more than 15,000 people over the years and Patch has gone to over 60 countries of the world with his performances, seminars and medical service. He is well known for his work and as a result of the film dedicated to his life story Patch Adams, in which he is played by Robin Williams.

Patch expressed his appreciation for Damanhur as a social model that promotes human connection, solidarity and creativity, key elements for being happy and healthy. He colorfully expressed his vision of wellbeing, which includes the importance of positive thinking, focusing on actively manifesting one's intentions rather than feeling like a victim, playfully transcending social norms to made authentic human connections, and appreciating the everyday joys of being alive.