Jean MattisonWhile much has been written on Schweitzer and the mission hospital, most authors wrote with the intention to be broadcast through media or to fellow intellectuals in the fields of medicine, theology, philosophy or music. Jean Mattison's account is a fresh perspective. Her writing is personal , grounded in the sites, smells, and simple things that patients, families, and foreign workers endure or enjoy while receiving or giving care in this world-known mission and ministry.
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Early YearsJean grew up on a farm in rural Maxton, NC. The farm produced vegetables and boasts the E. Farley Morris and Sons seed store since 1919 that still thrives in 2015.
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Africa 1963After college, Jean married Joel Mattison and then taught elementary school in Bethlehem, PA before moving to Duke University where Joel studied medicine. While at Duke, Jean continued teaching and began training for basic hospital skills and even flight lessons to work in Africa and at the Hopital du Schweitzer.
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40 Years LaterAfter Africa, Jean returned to teaching while Joel pursued further education at the Meninger Clinic and the University of Florida before moving to Tampa, FL and having their sons Lewis ('69) and Karl ('70). In Tampa Jean also worked professionally with Joel in his surgical practice and directed considerable time and attention toward Tampa community organizations and the Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church.
Since 2000, Jean suffered the loss of Joel, yet has enjoyed the addition of two daughters-in-law (Ashley and Molly) and three granddaughters (Lauren, Charlotte and Eva). |