DR. LYNETTE D. CHARITY'S

ESCAPE PLAN | DREAMING MY WAY OUT OF THE PROJECTS

ABOUT THE BOOK

Escape Plan: Dreaming My Way Out of the Projects

The story begins with Lynette and her mother, Mama, returning home from a barbecue. Mama is late and rushing, and Lynette struggles to keep up with her.
Key Points:
  • Lynette’s Family Dynamics: Lynette’s parents are in a strained relationship. Daddy is abusive, and Mama is afraid of him. Lynette feels caught in the middle, hating both parents for their actions.
  • Lynette’s Escape Plan: Lynette dreams of escaping the projects and becoming a doctor. She sees this as a way to escape the violence and poverty of her current life.
  • The Incident: The climax of the chapter occurs when Daddy arrives home drunk and attacks Mama. Mama is injured and falls to the ground. Lynette is frozen in fear and unable to help.
  • Lynette’s Inner Conflict: Lynette contemplates running away but ultimately decides she can’t leave Mama to face Daddy alone. She also considers killing Daddy to protect Mama, but realizes she can only save herself.
 
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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.

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.

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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.

Heather Fork, MD

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