Elizabeth Blackwell

The idea of a lady becoming a doctor had never occurred to me, but the more I thought of it, the more it seemed to me a grand and noble idea.

I do not wish to give the impression that I am a 'strong-minded woman.' I am not. I am simply a woman who has a strong mind.

If society will not admit of women's full development, then society must be remodelled.

The great problem of the future is the health of the people.

To deny women access to the medical profession is to deny them a fundamental right.

The study of medicine is a serious and arduous undertaking, but it is one that women are perfectly capable of pursuing.

I must have faith in myself, and in the power of truth, and in the ultimate triumph of right.

The path I have chosen is a difficult one, but I am determined to follow it to the end.

The medical education of women is not a question of sex, but of humanity.

I am not asking for special privileges, but for equal opportunities.

The true physician is not merely a dispenser of drugs, but a healer of souls.

My object was not to be a doctor, but to open the way for others.

The highest aim of medicine is not to cure disease, but to prevent it.

The world needs women doctors, and it needs them now.

I have met with much opposition, but I have also met with much encouragement.

The medical profession is a noble one, and it should be open to all who are qualified to enter it.

The health of the community depends on the health of its women.

I believe that women have a special contribution to make to medicine.

The education of women is essential to the progress of humanity.

I have never regretted my decision to become a doctor.