A CHRISTIAN FROM EGYPT LIFE STORY RAMSIS F. GHALY, MD, FACS This is my life story as a Coptic Christian, born and raised in Egypt in an environment of limited opportunities and scarce resources, especially for Christian minorities. Seeking the promise opportunity, I came to the United States nearly 30 years ago as a young man. As I flew westward on the plane, it did not occur to me that I would become a prominent neurosurgeon with a practice in one of the great cities of America. Nor did I anticipate that I would ever be in a position to fight for save lives and fight for patients lives, protecting them from the specter of financial greed permeates the health care industry. This book chronicles my journey in America from my early struggles to get past closed doors to my current practice serving the mission set before me with uncompromising zeal and devotion. Eventually I became a prominent American neurosurgeon among the only 4000 active nationwide and the only one nationally and internationally to achieve five board certifications in five acknowledged medical disciplines. My story takes the reader through my first hand experiences through the eight health care systems, and Chicagos history of neuroscience over the last three decades, providing an in-depth view of the medical practices in the surrounding suburban communities. My book also includes the lessons that I have learned, my personal views and patient testimonials. What I have faced and seen since my plane landed in this country in 1984 is almost inexpressible. It is my sincere wish that others may find hope and inspiration from my story, as well as an understanding of the challenges that the healthcare industry faces today along with my own passion for excellence in neuroscience as I confront them. I owe my success to God, to my cherished parents, my teachers, my mentors and most importantly, my beloved patients.