Ever since Mel Nutig was a young boy in Coney Island, he knew he was profoundly sad. But for a long time, he hadn’t known the word “depression”— and once he had learned it years later, he had no money with which to seek treatment, nor any emotional support from his family. With no way forward but through, he pushed himself to complete the years of college and medical school, rife with loss and hardships. And then, at the age of thirty-two, his high pressure life as an orthopedic surgeon would finally begin... CODE BLUES is a candid memoir about Mel navigating his turbulent life with depression. At seventy-nine years old, he reflects on his journeys through the darkest valleys and coming out alive on the other side. Living through a childhood in an isolating, low-income household, years of medical training overseas, success as an orthopedic surgeon, and his retirement — Dr. Nutig spares no details about the storm clouds that have hung over his entire life, sharing his story to give hope and encouragement to others. Full of poignant reflections, CODE BLUES shows the resilience of humans in the face of incredible odds. If we meet along a trail somewhere, say hello, and I’ll gladly respond. I’ll be honored if you do. Just don’t call me “sir.”