Tom Catena

Tom Catena 2018 stamp of Armenia (cropped)

Tom Catena is an American physician and missionary who has gained international recognition for his humanitarian work in the Nuba Mountains of Sudan. He is the medical director and sole physician at the Mother of Mercy Hospital in Gidel, a remote area in the Nuba Mountains.

Early Life and Education

Tom Catena was born in Amsterdam, New York. He attended Brown University, where he played football and earned a degree in mechanical engineering. He later attended the Duke University School of Medicine, where he received his medical degree.

Career

After completing his medical training, Catena joined the United States Navy and served as a flight surgeon. Following his military service, he felt a calling to serve in a more humanitarian capacity. He joined the Catholic Medical Mission Board and was sent to Kenya before eventually moving to the Nuba Mountains in Sudan.

Work in the Nuba Mountains

In 2008, Catena helped establish the Mother of Mercy Hospital in Gidel, which is the only major hospital in the region. The hospital serves a population of over 750,000 people, many of whom are affected by the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese government and rebel forces. Despite the challenging conditions, including frequent bombings and a lack of resources, Catena has remained committed to providing medical care to the local population.

Recognition and Awards

Tom Catena has received numerous awards for his humanitarian work, including the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity in 2017. He has been featured in various media outlets and documentaries highlighting his dedication and the impact of his work in the Nuba Mountains.

Personal Life

Catena is a devout Roman Catholic and has taken a vow of celibacy. He is known for his deep faith and commitment to serving others, which he cites as the driving force behind his work.

See Also

• Humanitarian aid
• Medical missionary
• Nuba Mountains conflict