2008 Ageless Hero

Robert Wesche M.D.
Age: 72

Champion for Health:
Works to improve the health of others through advocacy, outreach and education efforts

For more than 40 years, Dr. Robert Wesche, a surgeon and a graduate of the University of Oregon Medical School, and his wife Dora have traveled to Tenwek, Kenya, for periods up to two years to treat Kenyan people. While in Tenwek, Dr. Wesche's operations treated everything from spear wounds to bowel obstructions.

His current volunteer focus is on training local Kenyan surgeons. The Tenwek Hospital is committed to excellence in compassionate health care, spiritual ministry and training for service. This mission mirrors Dr. Wesche's own personal commitment and passion.

In 2005, a new surgical complex in Tenwek was opened in honor of Dr. Wesche. Since retiring from private practice in 1998, the Wesches have been back to Tenwek eight times, usually for periods of three to six months.