👩⚕️ Born in 1821, Elizabeth Blackwell applied to medical schools with a dream, but reality was harsh. Every single medical college rejected her admission simply because she was a woman. She was flatly refused time and again.
At Geneva Medical College in New York, the dean decided to leave the decision up to the male students, putting it to a vote. Treating it as a mere prank or a joke, the students voted "yes" unanimously.
She was admitted, but the road was far from easy. She faced ridicule and bullying from those around her. She was even barred from observing certain classes, such as anatomy, as it was considered "improper" for a woman.
On this day, January 23, 1849, she received her Medical Doctorate (M.D.), becoming the first woman in the world to do so. She graduated at the top of her class.
As the dean handed her the diploma, he removed his hat and bowed respectfully to her.
Although she did her utmost as the first female doctor, prejudice persisted. Tragedy struck when her left eye became infected during a surgical procedure, eventually requiring its removal.
Lying on her recovery bed in despair, her close friend Florence Nightingale stayed by her side, watching over her.
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