By T.F. Godwin, MD. Surrey: Hancock House Publishers, 2009. ISBN: 978-0-88839-654-9. Paperback, 368 pages. $29.95.

I recently read A Doctor’s Notes: Taken from both sides of the bedsheets, by Dr Tom Godwin. Admittedly, it would have been nicer if Kate Winslet had read it to me while I sipped white wine on the patio—I love her voice—but the experience was pleasant nevertheless. Dr Godwin spent his cardiology career at the Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster. 

As I spent my rotating internship at RCH, I have a special interest in his book. However, I am a little upset that Tom didn’t mention me in his chapter “Medical Buddies” as one of the most influential medical people in his life, but he probably didn’t want to embarrass me.

Dr Godwin’s memoirs are a journey from his youth to present day. I know he’s not dead yet as I recently saw him walk past my office in Langley. Dr Godwin was always a practical, call-it-like-he-saw-it kind of guy. His words weave interesting tales of patients, advances in medicine, and hospital challenges. 

He is frank, honest, and unpretentious, not to mention entertaining. He also shares heartfelt stories of hardship and joy involving his family. Dr Godwin has had a full and fascinating life as evidenced by his chapter called “Hobbies.” I’m not sure how he managed to fit everything in. Lastly, he poignantly shares his own health struggles, which eventually led to his retirement.

This mid-sized book has something for everyone but would be particularly enjoyable to anyone whose life was touched by Dr Godwin, and I’m sure there are many of us.

—DRR