"Dr. Feelgood"
About the entry
Richard Bedlack is a renowned expert on ALS, the baffling disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Because he treats those who get a diagnosis destined to wreck devastation, he's decided to be a fount of uplift-with his upswept hair, tailored but boldly colored suits, and openness to create a forum to review alternative treatments.
From the Judges' Report
Dr. Bedlack’s unique personality and style offer a good vehicle through which to convey a somewhat complicated story about ALS and ongoing research into the disease. The piece also does not shy away from telling readers about the university’s struggle to balance revenue concerns with patient needs by expanding Dr. Bedlack’s clinical work. Those details give it a ring of authenticity and help illustrate, through a real-world example, the kinds of vexing issues university medical centers and their physicians are grappling with.