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My Lobotomy


While working on this documentary, Howard Dully traveled to Washington, D.C. to view his sealed patient records. Dr. Walter Freeman photographed each transorbital lobotomy procedure. Howard Dully is the first patient ever to obtain a picture of his own operation.

Photo by Walter Freeman, 1960
Howard Dully before his "ice pick" lobotomy
Photo by Walter Freeman, Dec. 16, 1960
Howard Dully receiving his "ice pick" lobotomy Dec. 16, 1960
Photo by Walter Freeman, 1960
Howard Dully after his "ice pick" lobotomy

Dully's personal journey to find out about his lobotomy took him around the country as he interviewed lobotomy patients, their family members, and people who witnessed the operation. "This is my odyssey," said Dully.  "Everyone has one thing have to do before they die, and this is mine." 

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Transcript
Intro
Transorbital Lobotomy
Howard Dully
"My Lobotomy"

MORE

Learn about Howard Dully's memoir, published in 2007 by Random House

Howard's memoir on Amazon.com

An interactive lobotomy timeline

FAQ about lobotomies

A childhood photo of Howard Dully

A photo of Howard's step-mother, Lou

More information about the "ice pick" lobotomy

Audio extras from "My Lobotomy"

Oral histories from patients and witnesses

Photographs from Howard's journey

Producers' Notes


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