My Whole Life and 48 Years of Small Town Family Medical Practice

Tanner’s book begins with his formative years in Missouri and Georgia during the 1920s and 1930s. As a young man, Tanner begins college in Virginia and then leaves for the island of Saipan during World War II. Upon his return, his medical career began in earnest as he is accepted to the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond. His internship in Saint Petersburg, Florida landed him in family practice in Auburndale, Florida in 1955 where he spent his career with a number of various patients and their problems. Tanner’s memories are gathered from scribbling notes and patients’ comments on bits of paper and prescriptions over the years. They reveal the joys and sorrows that he went through as a doctor; the ups and downs shared with his family and the often humorous comments that patients would say. The last two chapters contain priceless quotes from his patients over his many years as a small town physician. Tanner’s narration is laced with nostalgic musings and gives the reader an opportunity to step back to a simpler time. He expertly illustrates the change in medicine and in life over eight decades. It is a heartwarming story to be enjoyed over and over again as it depicts a man’s passion for his profession, his family, his patients and his life.