Most of the medical women of old were very fondly remembered. That was the case of "Doc Susie." I'd say she made a lasting impression on quite a few folks in her long career.
Susan “Doc Susie” Anderson
Photo via Wikipedia
Few women practiced medicine in the 1800s, and even fewer trekked on foot through the frontier to tend to patients, but that is exactly what Susan “Doc Susie” Anderson did.
Susan’s father encouraged her to become a doctor and paid for her education at the University of Michigan. After earning her medical degree, Susan decided to move back to Cripple Creek, Colorado with her family to begin a medical practice. She quickly earned a reputation as a skilled physician, often helping injured miners.
After numerous personal setbacks, Susan left the roughneck mining town to practice medicine in Denver. Despite her skill, she was unable to establish a steady practice and instead ended up nursing for six years in Greeley, Colorado. Years before, Susan had contracted tuberculosis, and she decided that the high altitudes of Fraser, Colorado would better suit her condition. It was in Fraser that Susan really flourished as a physician and earned the nickname “Doc Susie.” Because her patients were often poor, Susan was usually paid in food or firewood. With little monetary income, Susan was fairly destitute herself until she was named the Grand County Coroner. This medicine woman continued to make house calls until the age of 84
Now this is a case of someone that is very dedicated to their profession and my hat is certainly off to them. I can't even imagine a doctor today making house calls, especially at the age of 84. Sure could use a few like her today!
Coffee in the kitchen this morning, I think. 94% chance of rain!
