Born: 1809 (Paris, France)
Biography:
Marie Josefina Mathilde Durocher, born on 6 January 1809 in Paris, was a trailblazing Brazilian obstetrician, midwife, and physician. She holds the distinction of being the first female doctor in Latin America, making significant contributions to the field of medicine and breaking barriers for women in a male-dominated profession.
Durocher’s parents were French immigrants, and when she was just eight years old, they relocated to Brazil. From a young age, Durocher displayed a strong intellect and a passion for learning. She overcame societal expectations and pursued her education, ultimately carving a path for herself in the medical world.
Tragically, Durocher was widowed at a young age and left to raise her two children alone. Determined to provide for her family and follow her calling, she set her sights on becoming a doctor. In 1834, Durocher achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first woman to be granted a medical degree from the newly established Medical School of Rio de Janeiro.
Throughout her remarkable career, Durocher served as an active medical practitioner for an impressive sixty years. She gained recognition and admiration for her skill and dedication, becoming well-known both within her profession and in wider society.
Durocher’s unconventional choice of attire also garnered attention. She challenged societal norms by opting to dress in men’s clothing, which she considered more practical for her profession than the restrictive women’s clothing of the time. Her bold choice empowered other women to defy conventions and pursue their passions in male-dominated fields.
One of the most significant highlights of Durocher’s career was her role as the midwife to the grandchildren of Emperor Pedro II of Brazil. Her expertise and compassionate care earned her the respect and trust of the royal family.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions to the field of medicine, Durocher achieved yet another historic milestone in 1871. She became the first female member of the esteemed Academia Nacional de Medicina, a prestigious institution dedicated to promoting scientific knowledge and advancing medical research. Durocher’s membership in the Academy was an important step forward for gender equality in the medical field, and she remained its sole female member for an astounding fifty years.
Marie Durocher’s unwavering determination, groundbreaking achievements, and tireless dedication to her profession have left an indelible mark on the history of medicine in Latin America. She is remembered as a pioneering figure, who shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for future generations of women in the field of medicine.
Awards:
– Inducted as the first female member of the Academia Nacional de Medicina in 1871.