WesternU Alumnus Publishes Lewis & Clark Expedition-themed Wilderness Medicine Book
Western University of Health Sciences alumnus Dr. David
J. Peck, a 1987 graduate of the university’s College of Osteopathic
Medicine of the Pacific and practicing urgent-care physician, has long
held a fascination for the pioneer exploits of Meriwether Lewis and
William Clark since his childhood days in western Montana. Peck’s
curiosity and penchant for historical research have inspired a book that
retraces the travails of the famous Lewis & Clark Expedition, the role
of wilderness medicine and its evolution toward the practice of modern
Western medicine today.
“”Or Perish in the Attempt, Wilderness Medicine in the Lewis &
Clark Expedition”” explores the origins of medicine and science as
practiced and conceived in the early 19th century. The numerous
wilderness adventures and hardships that threatened the expedition
team in the hostile environment of unexplored America of 1804-1806 are
documented, with emphasis on the essential role of wilderness medicine
in the lives of the explorers during the Missouri-to-Pacific Ocean trek.
The book is based on a compilation of research findings, actual written
accounts from the famous expedition, and anecdotal information from
Peck’s many years of medical research and practice.
“”Dr. Peck’s research and writing endeavors are a fine example
of the lifelong learning philosophy that is the foundation of Western
University,”” said President Philip Pumerantz, Ph.D. “”His passion for
understanding the evolving nature of medicine and his willingness
to continue asking questions together make the book an intriguing,
educational and entertaining read.””
Reviews of Peck’s work have been positive. “”Dr. Peck has assembled
an engrossing account of the illnesses and injuries as gleaned from the
journals . . . the strength of the book is its delightful readability,
a splendid narrative that binds the reader,”” wrote JAMA on July 2, 2003.
The October 2003 issue of Alaska Airlines magazine wrote, “”This well-
researched book investigates the health issues faced by the Corps of
Discovery on its epic journey. The author’s keen observations, literary
style and witticisms make this book an entertaining and enlightening
read.”” Added Dave Walter, Research Historian for the Montana Historical
Society: “”. . . altogether revealing, instructive and entertaining.
One of the most rewarding reads of the Bicentennial.””
“”Or Perish in the Attempt,”” published by Farcountry Press, is
available online at Amazon.com, at local book retailers and Western
University’s on-campus bookstore. Further information about the book
can be accessed on the WesternU website
or at Dr. Peck’s website.
Upcoming speaking engagements for Dr. Peck include the San Diego
Natural History Museum on July 27 and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive
Center in Sioux City, Iowa, on August 20.
