In a recent conversation with CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Dr. Anthony Fauci discussed his new memoir, “On Call: A Doctor’s Journey in Public Service,” detailing his decades-long career in public health. Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institute of Health, rose to national prominence during the Covid-19 pandemic as a member of the White House Coronavirus Task Force. Despite facing political headwinds from then-President Donald Trump and backlash from coronavirus deniers, Fauci has remained calm and focused on his work.
Reflecting on his career, Fauci recalled the pivotal moment in 1981 when he first learned about the HIV/AIDS epidemic. He emphasized the importance of empathy and listening to the activists who pushed back against the government and scientific authorities. Fauci acknowledged the activists’ role in shaping the response to HIV/AIDS, ultimately leading to their inclusion in advisory committees and becoming his close friends.
Fauci’s ability to navigate controversy and criticism, from his time combating HIV/AIDS to managing the Covid-19 pandemic, highlights his dedication to public service and empathy towards those in need. As he continues to face challenges, including death threats, Fauci remains committed to his work and the health of the American public.
