Pluck: Lessons We Learned for Improving Healthcare and the World Paperback – June 28, 2022

(P)LUCK is a remarkable account of two lives (and countless other connections and influences) who though many twists and turns, have left their mark upon the world, and in turn made a world better for all. To see the word (P)LUCK, one may assume that this is a book about persistence and luck. However, this is an overly simplistic explanation of the remarkable lives, accomplishments and lessons lived, learned, and shared by Blair and Alfred Sadler. The term pluck is defined in most dictionaries as “spirited and determined courage” and this book illustrates that characteristic magnificently.(P)LUCK is about a type of cultivated behavioral ecology, with characters who are determined to do the right thing, in the right manner, in the right place, at the right time. The LUCK described in the book is a Seneca-esque; “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity” with numerous examples illustrating this maxim. When those elements are not present, these leaders make it a point to identify an effort and opportunity which benefits others and intentionally place themselves in positions to help, innovate and open doors.The abundant universe that the Sadler’s imagine and dare to create is not about ruthless self-promotion, limited resources, and equity and justice denied. Rather it is an enabling and generous universe, where hard work, creativity, innovation, and courage enable others to create a more just, virtuous, and verdant future. Through service, collaboration, and a focus on solving problems that fill important gaps in societal need, (P)LUCK illustrates how one can live a life and enable and inspire others to live lives full of purpose, possibility, and abundance. The book includes remarkable stories and examples which link these concepts together, drawing the reader in and enabling them to see parallels and possibilities in their own lives, both professionally and personally,15 Lessons for Catalyzing Change is a leadership and personal self-help tutorial. I encourage the readers to flip to Lesson 15, which the Sadlers attribute the description of to Rosamund and Benjamin Zanders book “The Art of Possibility.” Lesson 15 is an excellent starting place because it is essential to have the right mental framework for being open to the lessons that are available in (P)LUCK. Dwelling in possibility is not only an essential personal mindset, but also the positively focused zeitgeist necessary for our collective future together on this planet.15 Lessons for Catalyzing Change can be imagined as a leadership framework for new, emerging, or highly accomplished leaders in need of an exercise which enables them to visualize and engage in new possibilities. Consider giving a copy to your executive leadership team, your junior managers, your classroom, a group of new leaders or using this book to augment change management initiatives. You could also consider utilizing the 15 Lessons for Catalyzing Change to lead a conference, meeting, to teach a class or group in a discussion-based pedagogy style or to engage in a professional development session. These lessons are universal, and collectively create a framework for open discussion, collaboration and creative, democratic problem solving. Whether you are engaged in developing leaders, seeking continued development yourself or in need of inspiration or a methodology to unlock potential, (P)LUCK is a book that will appeal to a wide and diverse audience.

This book is a must-read for anyone passionate about making a difference in the world. Written by twin brothers, Alfred Sadler and Blair Sadler, the book is a powerful and inspiring journey through the authors' experiences in healthcare and the lessons they learned along the way.The authors' personal anecdotes add a relatable and human touch, and their passion for improving healthcare shines through in every chapter. The name of the book, "(p)Luck," seems to come from the idea that "luck" is something fortunate that happens to you, and "pluck" is having the courage to recognize and take advantage of that luck by actually doing something.For example, Blair Sadler was watching his brother play in a University Club squash tournament just a few blocks from the White House. He happened to notice that Chief Justice Earl Warren was standing near him. That's the "luck" part.He walked over and asked, "Mr. Chief Justice, have you ever played squash." "No. I haven't," he replied. "Will you tell me the basics?" That led to an easy back and forth that gave Blair the chance to talk about working at NIH and the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act (UAGA), the project on which he and Fred had been working. Justice Warren asked them to visit his office to discuss the UAGA further. That is the start of the "pluck" part— the courage to ask.The UAGA was the first of many of the Sadler brothers' projects that changed the healthcare profession. The authors share practical tips and lessons that can be applied in any field, not just healthcare. The book's emphasis on "pluck," or determination and perseverance, is especially inspiring and will leave readers feeling motivated to make a difference, too.

The Introduction sets up scenarios of our worst nightmare accidents, and disasters, that could have been alleviated if only there were a doctor AND a lawyer present to save your physical life while avoiding a lawsuit for the Good Samaritan.The idea of a tag-team physician/barrister Dynamic Healthcare Duo seems like fodder for a joke or simply impossible, unless you Read this true story of the Sadler twins, Dr. Fred Sadler and Attorney at Law Blair Sadler.Fresh out of medical and law school the Sadlers tackled the health/societal/legal issues of the late-1960's and beyond that would diminish prosecution for any skilled individual to assist in dire emergencies.I was surprised these two were public school educated, not prep-schoolers, who both earned academic scholarships. I love stories about regular Joe's/Jane's; Fred's/Blair's who find Greatness from within. Silver spooners, these men were not.Frankenstein-ian organ harvesting of cadavers was a problem literally dropped in the laps of the Sadler twins in 1967. As a reader, and fan of all things CSI, I was hooked. You likely carry a card, or a designation on your driver's license in your wallet as a result of Fred & Blair's ethical research papers and presentations codifying organ donation.If I share the famous names and moments, I'll be a spoiler. Assuredly, you will enjoy every moment of this journey into historically FAMOUS and infamous cases, subjects, political, and judicial offices and venues while wanting to know more. Gracious, and THEN what, Sadler Brothers???Twins working together to tackle medical/legal/social issues we take for granted, with gratitude, today.My take-away is two physically identical people share their individual strengths, courage, ideas in distinctly separate dialogues reminding me, reminding us, the will to persevere, to achieve, to succeed is within each of us.It just takes PLUCK. ~Kyle Elizabeth WoodHistorianAuthor