Faith and Healing: Insights from ‘The Angels Among Us’

Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel provides personal stories of faith and divine intervention in his book, The Angels Among Us. The book highlights individuals who have experienced transformative healing. Among these narratives is the story of Bill Rhodes, whose encounter with a medical student in Nazareth inspired him to become a plastic surgeon dedicated to alleviating suffering in Kenya.

A pressing concern today is alcohol consumption. Despite national data indicating a decrease since the pandemic, overall alcohol use remains higher than in 2018. Although younger generations consume less, middle-aged adults show an increase in heavy drinking since 2018. Many in this age group face stress as they care for both aging parents and adolescent children. While alcohol may temporarily relieve stress, it poses serious long-term health risks. A study in Colorado indicates that older adults are more prone to drinking alone, increasing their risk for cognitive decline.

About 28 million Americans are estimated to have alcohol use disorder, with many being middle-aged. Alarmingly, half of the alcohol-related deaths in the U.S. occur in this demographic.

Faith-based interventions, particularly Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), remain effective against alcoholism. Founded in the 1930s by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith after a chance encounter, the AA program is based on forming spiritual connections. These founders became conduits of hope for millions through their 12-step program.

The Angels Among Us includes a chapter on Bill Wilson’s miraculous recovery and his pivotal friendship with Dr. Bob. Admitted to Towns Hospital in New York in 1934, Wilson struggled with alcohol withdrawal. In a moment of desperation, he prayed for divine intervention. He perceived a profound spiritual experience that marked a turning point in his life.

The room lights up with a blinding glare. Wilson, overwhelmed by an ecstatic feeling, believes he is enveloped by the spirit of God.

Wilson shared his transformative moment with Dr. Silkworth, the doctor attending him. Dr. Silkworth, perceiving this as a significant psychic event, encouraged Wilson to cherish and share the experience. Wilson and Dr. Bob later reached out to other alcoholics with empathy, spreading goodwill and encouraging sobriety.

In today’s context, the lesson of in-person compassion and peer support is vital. Healing through interpersonal interaction remains powerful, as alcohol addiction often worsens in isolation. The teachings from Wilson’s experience emphasize that both doctors and peers can be agents of healing.

The Angels Among Us is set to be published on November 17, 2026, by Fox Books.