Allen Booth

Moving Mountains in Appalachia Allen Booth

One Man. One Woman. A Lifetime of Achievements. Paul F. Maddox grew up during the Great Depression in rural Eastern Kentucky. Everyday life was a challenge for most during this time, especially for those living in one of the poorest regions of Appalachia. Orphaned at the age of six, he overcame poverty, insecurity, and disability to follow his dreams. In 1951, Paul married Patricia Lamb-a young lady with drive and devotion. After Paul graduated from the University of Louisville's School of Medicine and served an internship at Good Samaritan Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky, the couple opened a practice in Campton-a rural, tobacco-farming town nestled in the hills of Eastern Kentucky. Dr. Paul and Patricia Maddox would work for over half a century to make the impoverished area a better place to live. Dr. Maddox rose to national prominence during the 1960's through his efforts to lower the poverty rate using birth control. During this time, he became known as the busiest doctor in the country. Open virtually 24/7, the Maddox Clinic regularly attended over 100 patients per day and delivered over 6,000 babies. In 1999, Dr. Maddox was presented the prestigious Country Doctor of the Year Award. The life of Dr. Paul and Patricia Maddox is an against-all-odds story of personal strength, determination, and perseverance during a time and in a place where few dreams came true. Their narrative is a model that we can use as an inspiration to improve ourselves and the lives of those around us.