Doc Montandon will quite possibly be the best man you will ever know. This book is about him, a hard-working and religious Texas farmer of uncommonly good character. It's about prejudices that affected everyone growing up in rural Texas in the 50's and 60's. And it's about Doc's tragic death and cover-up by medical authorities.
In very good health, Doc was subjected to unnecessary exploratory surgery and was transfused with tainted HIV blood. To make matters worse, the gentle Texas farmer was not apprised of his condition by medical authorities who covered it up. After he began suffering from the symptoms of AIDS, Doc was refused admittance and help from the same people at the community hospital where the evil deed was done.
This book is, above all, about how the legacy of Doc's example and principles helped his son and family endure, overcome, and experience forgiveness and redemption that can only come from the great sacrifice by his own blood.
By His Own Blood is the 2012 winner of the International Book Awards for Non-Fiction Narrative and is beautifully told by Doc's son, the author of the book. It is an emotional, honest and detailed accounting that can only come from someone who's been there. Based on a true story, you'll feel the grit of country road dust in your teeth and hear Doc exalting a cappella in a favorite hymn over the sound of his John Deere tractor as you are compelled to plow nonstop through this wonderful book.