Educating Tammy

A Relentless Pursuit: One Woman's Fight for the Rights of Disabled Children in Apartheid's Dark Days.

Amidst the shadows of apartheid's oppressive regime, a fierce beacon of hope emerged. Dr. Lorna Swartz, a passionate medical professional and mother, embarked on an unyielding journey against a backdrop of prejudice and systemic discrimination. Educating Tammy: Fighting for apartheid's disabled children chronicles Lorna's inspiring story as she battles for the rights of disabled children, including her daughter Tammy.

Growing up during the tumultuous transition to apartheid, Lorna's early experiences would shape her life's trajectory. Embracing her calling in medicine, she remained a medical student when marrying and graduated. Yet, the universe had a challenging path in store for her. Tammy's developmental challenges posed a puzzle that the South African medical community couldn't or wouldn't solve. Undeterred, Lorna, Morrice, and Tammy ventured to Purdue University's renowned child clinic in the U.S., finding not only answers but a new purpose.

Returning home, Lorna ignited an exceptional educational experiment, gaining government endorsement. But as the endeavor flourished, it drew the ire of state officials, leading to years of conflict and threats against Lorna. 

After emigrating to the United States, Dr. Swartz continued to expand her profound impact on the medical field. She completed a fellowship in Psychiatry and established a private practice in San Diego. Her practice became a haven for a diverse clientele, approximately half of whom were children, while the remainder were adults grappling with untreated issues that persisted from childhood. Dr. Swartz encountered adults facing a gamut of challenges: pervasive high levels of anxiety, moodiness, low self-esteem, social isolation, failures in their professional lives, impulsivity coupled with distractibility, and a host of social difficulties. This memoir not only tells the story of her relentless advocacy during apartheid but also extends into her enduring commitment to mental health in her practice, showcasing the indelible mark she has made on countless lives.