Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture The Remarkable and Influential Life of Surgeon General Dr. C. Everett Koop
Dec 10, 2025
Nigel Cameron, a medical historian and biographer of Dr. C. Everett Koop, dives into the fascinating life of the former Surgeon General. He discusses Koop's rise as a pediatric surgeon and his unique blend of tough love and humor. Nigel reveals how clinical experiences shaped Koop's pro-life stance and his groundbreaking work on tobacco and AIDS, impacting public health policy. He also touches on the Baby Doe controversy and Koop's struggles with political pressures, offering insights into his legacy as a compassionate leader in challenging times.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Pioneering Pediatric Surgeon Who Cared Deeply
- Nigel Cameron describes C. Everett Koop as a celebrated pediatric surgeon who pioneered pediatric surgery in the U.S. and separated conjoined twins.
- He combined a gruff, commanding side with a gentle ability to care for and amuse children, shaping his public persona.
Faith Shaped A Public Medical Figure
- Nigel Cameron was motivated to write Koop's biography because Koop was a convinced Reformed evangelical who became a major public figure.
- Cameron wanted a university-press treatment that took Koop's faith seriously without making it a partisan Christian book.
Chance Meeting With Francis Schaeffer
- Koop met Francis Schaeffer through treating the Schaeffer family's child and became deeply involved in Schaeffer's ministry and support.
- That relationship drew Koop into broader cultural and theological conversations that influenced his public engagement.
