Lynette Charity's life is filled with fascinating stories and fun facts. One memorable moment was when she decided to become a stand-up comedian after being fired from her job as an anesthesiologist at the age of 60. This unexpected career shift led her to join Toastmasters, where she honed her public speaking skills and competed at the World Championship of Public Speaking. Lynette's ability to blend humor with her medical expertise has made her a sought-after speaker and a beloved figure in both the medical and comedy communities. She often shares her experiences with audiences, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and find joy in every aspect of life.
Her words heal, her stories inspire, and her laughter transforms.
Beyond the
book
Sharing the Author’s journey through every page, Dr. Lynette Charity blends her humor with heartfelt stories, turning experiences into lessons and laughter. Her book inspires, entertains, and leaves a lasting impact on readers.
Dr.
Lynette
Charity
Stand up Comedian
Comedy
Physician
Dr. Lynette Charity, a board-certified anesthesiologist with over 35 years of experience, is more than just a medical professional. She is also a dynamic motivational speaker, humorist, and author who uses her platform to inspire others to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams. Her journey to becoming a physician was paved with challenges. Growing up in the segregated South, she faced skepticism and prejudice, being told that "No Medical School is gonna accept a Colored girl." Yet, she persevered, earning her medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine and achieving the rank of Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Army. These experiences have shaped her into a powerful advocate for overcoming obstacles, particularly for those from underrepresented groups.
Physician
Motivational Speaker
As a motivational speaker, Dr. Charity uses her personal story to encourage others to "wake people UP" to their own potential. She doesn't shy away from sharing her struggles with racial, gender, and age bias, emphasizing the importance of resilience and perseverance. Her speeches are infused with humor, making her message relatable and engaging. She has spoken to a wide range of audiences, from medical students to professional organizations, leaving a lasting impact on those who hear her story. Dr. Charity's commitment to inspiring others extends beyond her speaking engagements. She is a vocal advocate for physicians, recognizing the challenges they face with burnout, depression, and suicide. She encourages physicians to find support and community, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.
Speaker
AUTHOR'S BIO
LYNETTE D. CHARITY, MD
Dr. Lynette Charity’s memoir, “Escape Plan: Dreaming My Way Out of the Projects,” is a powerful and inspiring story of resilience, determination, and triumph over adversity. Growing up in the segregated South during the 1960s, Dr. Charity faced numerous challenges, but her unwavering resolve to become a doctor propelled her to overcome the odds and achieve her dreams.
The Inspiration Behind the Book
Dr. Charity’s journey began at the tender age of nine when she witnessed a traumatic incident that would shape her future. One night, she saw her father hit her mother so hard that she flipped over their front porch railing and fell into the hedges below. This harrowing experience ignited a fire within young Lynette to escape her circumstances and create a better life for herself.
A month later, Dr. Charity found inspiration in an unexpected place—a new television show called “Ben Casey.” Watching the show, she decided that becoming a doctor was her way out of the projects. Despite the racial and gender biases prevalent at the time, she remained undeterred and focused on her studies.
As a fellow physician, I understand that you want trust and respect for your skills and expertise. And in order to get that, you need the authority and autonomy to exercise your professional judgment.
Unfortunately, I know first hand that the medical system is so broken that burnout, depression, and suicide are way too common. The system is destroying the people who are responsible for the health of our family and loved ones. And the problem is so big that we feel helpless to bring about the changes that are required.
I’ve been there and almost lost decades of training and experience – and even my own life, because I responded as a human being rather than meeting the impossible demand for perfection that physicians are expected to model.
I want to help you keep your dignity, autonomy, and humanity while you serve in the medical profession. It starts with identifying your people, since you cannot do this alone. Then we establish your lifeline before you need it. Finally, helping you nurture a sense of humor to combat the absurdity all around you. I look forward to supporting your organization.
Overcoming Adversity
Dr. Charity’s path to success was not easy. Growing up in Virginia, she faced the harsh realities of segregation. Determined to receive a better education, she forged her mother’s signature on transfer papers to attend a better-resourced white school on the other side of town. Her dedication to her studies paid off, and she earned a full scholarship to Pittsburgh’s Chatham College.
After graduating with honors from Chatham, Dr. Charity continued to break barriers by becoming one of seven Black women in her class at Tufts University School of Medicine. Her perseverance and single-minded determination enabled her to face down adversity and exceed everyone’s expectations.
A Story of Grit, Grief, and Gratitude
“Escape Plan: Dreaming My Way Out of the Projects” is a raw, candid, and inspiring memoir that chronicles Dr. Charity’s journey from the projects to becoming a board-certified anesthesiologist with over forty years of experience. Her story is a testament to the power of grit, grief, and gratitude, and it serves as a beacon of hope for anyone facing seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Dr. Charity’s mission is to help others pursue their dreams by sharing her story of overcoming obstacles related to racial bias, gender bias, and age bias. Her memoir is not only a reflection of her personal journey but also a source of inspiration for those who dare to dream big and work tirelessly to achieve their goals.
More about Dr. Lynette Charity
Join Dr. Lynette Charity's Journey on Social Media!
Be inspired, stay connected, and join the conversation with Dr. Lynette Charity. Follow her on social media for insights, updates, and a behind-the-scenes look into her extraordinary journey from the projects to becoming a renowned anesthesiologist and author. Don’t miss out on exclusive content, upcoming events, and motivational messages that will empower you to chase your dreams.
Reader's reflections
Heart-Wrenching and Inspiring: A Memoir You Won’t Forget
Dr. Lynette Charity’s book, Escape Plan: Dreaming My Way Out of the Projects, is an exceptionally moving and inspiring account of her life. Known professionally before reading the book, the reviewer was unprepared for the depth of emotion and honesty in Dr. Charity’s storytelling. Her journey from a challenging childhood in the projects to becoming a successful physician is extraordinary.
The book introduces readers to various influential figures in her life, some of whom were sources of pain, while others were guiding angels. Dr. Charity’s resilience and determination are highlighted as she rises above her circumstances. The beautifully written book reminds readers that it is possible to break free from poverty and trauma, emphasizing that one’s actions define their life. The reviewer eagerly anticipates a second book, as Dr. Charity’s life continues to be an inspiring journey.
A triumphant story of grit and grace, told with candor, humor, and forgiveness.
I saw Lynette Charity do stand up and ordered the book when I got home. I was totally unprepared for the not just the lack of love, but the opposite of love that she grew up with. I guess I was already a fan when I started, but she pulls you in with the unvarnished accounts of her childhood– you root for this smart, self-possessed, and justifiably angry kid to transcend her circumstances, and make her incredibly unlikely plans a reality. You know from the outset the book will have a happy ending, but there’s no magic wand, no overnight success. There are setbacks and there are helpers, and Lynette will never escape the trauma of her childhood. However, she has broken the cycle. I hope she writes another one– I know from her show that her professional/personal life since has been equally (but differently) inspiring.
Great book
My friend wrote this. I had no idea what her life was when she was young.
Knowing Dr. Lynette Charity professionally, I had some insights into her life, but reading Escape Plan: Dreaming My Way Out of the Projects revealed depths of her journey I never imagined. Her resilience and determination to become a successful physician despite her challenging upbringing are truly extraordinary. This beautifully written book deepened my admiration and respect for her, and I eagerly anticipate her next work.