Renowned surgeon and political columnist Dr. Ben Carson will talk to students in Sikeston, Mo. this weekend. Carson became famous in the medical world for his ground-breaking work successfully separating conjoined twins at the head for the first time in medical history.
His speech on Saturday will be dedicated to encouraging youth to reach a higher level of education. It will combine with the theme from his latest book “America the Beautiful: What Made this Nation Great.” The book goes in depth about Carson’s political standpoints with references throughout history.
Carson is an advocate for educating at risk youth. Committee member Myrna Mcmillen said Carson is very heavily involved in scholarships. During the event three, $5,000 scholarships from Lighthouse Ministries International will be awarded to local high school students who have met certain qualifications. The proceeds from the event will go toward funding the scholarships.
“He would be the best speaker by far that I know of to bring to Sikeston because he’s got great commonsense ideas,” Mcmillen said.
Carson has written five best selling books and the movie “Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story”is based on Carson’s life and medical career. Among the the numerous honors and experiences listed on Carson’s biography, the most recent is his political work. There is currently a petition out for Carson to run for United States President.
According to Mcmillen, it’s hard to say as of right now whether or not Carson will accept. He has no affiliation with the Republican or Democratic parties. He was once quoted saying that if he were a member of a political party it would be called the “Logic Party” and be based off what he calls common sense approaches that he believes everyone should be able to see. Carson’s biggest support has been from some conservatives.
The doors open for the event at 4:30 p.m. on Feb. 22 in the fieldhouse at Sikeston High School. Prior to Carson’s speech, there will be a brief performance by America’s Got Talent 2008 winner, Neil Boyd followed by Sikeston high school’s choir.