Bethany Niagara on the Lake, Ontario
Fair address: Niagara Catholic Regional Fair
Project: The Canadian Women of Women's College Hospital
I introduce the strong, wise, kind and caring women doctors that were a part of the Women's College Hospital from its inception. I also discuss the three hospital buildings and show the growth and importance of this hospital to our Canadian Heritage.
What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?
I learned that Dr. Jennie Smillie Robertson was the first female surgeon in Canada. She performed her first operation on the kitchen table at 18 Seaton Street, the first site of the Women's College Hospital. Dr. Roberton lived to be 103 years old, her life story is incredible as was her dedication to her patients and her passion for helping others as a Canadian female doctor. Dr Jennie Smillie Robertson (born 1878, died 1981: WCH 1911-1942)
What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?
I have learned that the work of many courageous, intelligent and forward thinking women has been experienced in Canada, here in Ontario at the Women's College Hospital. Forward thinking women, the doctors, and the hospital have continued to grow and promote excellence in the care of women through the years to come.
How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?
Due to the lives of the Canadian Women doctors I researched and grew to know in my project, I am motivated to continue my dream of becoming a Canadian female doctor. They were the pioneers and trailblazers in the Canadian medical field who opened up the opportunities for generations of females to follow! I would say my life has been enriched by their accomplishments and I can see myself striving to be a trailblazer like them. They are Canadian heroes!