In recognition of Women's History month, throughout the month of March, I am recognizing women past and present who are trailblazers to me. Today, I recognize Dr. Susan Picotte. In 1865, as the Civil War drew to a close, a remarkable woman was born in a tipi in Nebraska to the Omaha tribe. Her name was Susan La Flesche (Picotte), and she embodied the spirit of her tribe, whose name means "to go against the current." Witnessing the tragic death of a woman in her tribe, turned away by a doctor who deemed Native lives unworthy, ignited a fierce determination in Susan to provide healthcare for all. In 1889, Susan defied all odds and graduated as valedictorian of her medical class from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania and would become the first Native American to earn a medical degree in the United States. She could deliver babies, treat diseases, and suture wounds, yet she couldn't vote or call herself a U.S. citizen due to her Native American heritage. Dr. Susan, as she came to be known, went on to treat over 1,200 patients and saw her dream of a hospital on her reservation become a reality before her untimely death at 49. Her legacy is a testament to her unwavering spirit and dedication to her people. 🎉 #womenshistorymonth #trailblazers https://lnkd.in/gNG6ZGRh
