Preview
  • JFK's Secret Doctor

  • The Remarkable Life of Medical Pioneer and Legendary Rock Climber Hans Kraus
  • By: E.B. Schwartz
  • Narrated by: Joe Barrett
  • Length: 9 hrs and 22 mins
  • 4.9 out of 5 stars (22 ratings)

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JFK's Secret Doctor

By: E.B. Schwartz
Narrated by: Joe Barrett
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Publisher's summary

JFK's Secret Doctor tells a thrilling story of adventure and a historic medical career. Set against the grand panorama of 20th century world events, it captures the remarkable life and spirit of climber and medical visionary Hans Kraus (1905–1996). Kraus was taught English by writer James Joyce, escaped Nazi-dominated Europe, and was JFK's secret back specialist. A legendary rock climber, known for hair-raising ascents on two continents, Kraus lived a life full of triumph, tragedy, intensity, verve, and a whole lot of guts, glory, and wit. Few realized that the same man, considered one of the great unsung medical pioneers of the 20th century, was also making headline news throughout the second half of the 1950s, was a guest of honor at Eisenhower’s White House, and the cover story of major magazines throughout America, including Sports Illustrated. His pioneering work in muscles and fitness uncovered shocking truths about the health of American children, and his work curing back pain brought him into the Kennedy White House and inner circle of Camelot.

Here is the life of Hans Kraus, including the previously untold story of Kennedy’s debilitating back problems, including Kennedy’s White House medical records and first-time interviews with two Kennedy White House doctors.

©2012 Susan E. B. Schwartz (P)2013 Audible, Inc.
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Editorial reviews

Austrian doctor and rock climber Hans Kraus was a medical visionary whose life was crowded with remarkable experiences. He learned English from James Joyce, escaped Nazi-dominated Europe, and eventually cured John F. Kennedy's back pain using the then-groundbreaking theory that exercise and activity could combat muscle problems.

Award-winning narrator Joe Barrett perfectly evokes Kraus' verve and wit, and while he provides characters with distinct accents, he takes care not to overdo. However, Barrett's versatility is most illustrated in his dignified and subtle treatment of Kraus' personal tragedies, particularly with the doctor's poignant battles with depression.

What listeners say about JFK's Secret Doctor

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A must read

Fantastic storytelling recounting the life of Hans Kraus. It will appeal to the climber, history buff, medical officianado. Touching recount of this pillars life.

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Do not stop Reading

Anyone who is interested in JFK needs to hear this book. It is about the doctor who treated the President. It gives insight into the man JFK was inspite of his pain. I was a sophomore in college when he was assassinated. I had never heard of his sicknesses before and during his time in office. This book was well written. The narrator was super. I enjoyed the accents.

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A great book of Dr Kraus

Really enjoyed listening to the whole book. Dr Kraus is a legend. Just wish all the Orthopedics, pain management doctors and physical therapist will follow him and his practicing.

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We need more people like Dr. Kraus in healthcare.

If you have any connection to healthcare as a patient, employee or leader, you will appreciate this book.

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Beautiful book

This book is extremely well researched and the story is truly captivating. Highly recommend for both climbers and non climbers

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Fascinating story about a fascinating man

Wow! I simply could not stop reading this incredible story.

The author made it so interesting, with perspectives of different people and different aspects of Hans Kraus’ life. The story was told with love and respect, making it a joy to be part of his world. I was literally crying at the end while I was driving and listening. So grateful for the pioneering work he did that affects the treatment of back pain today.

I am recommending this book to everyone I know who works in fitness or healing, climbs, has back pain, or really anyone who wants a great read about an admirable person.

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