Irma LeVasseur

Irma LeVasseur

Irma LeVasseur (1877-1964) was a pioneering Canadian physician and one of the first female doctors in Quebec. She is best known for her contributions to pediatrics and her role in the establishment of the first hospital for children in Quebec, the Sainte-Justine Hospital.

Early Life and Education

Irma LeVasseur was born on January 20, 1877, in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. From a young age, she showed a keen interest in medicine, a field that was largely inaccessible to women at the time. Determined to pursue a medical career, LeVasseur left Canada to study medicine in the United States, where opportunities for women were slightly more available. She graduated with a medical degree from the University of Minnesota in 1900.

Career

After obtaining her medical degree, LeVasseur returned to Canada, where she faced significant obstacles in practicing medicine due to her gender. Despite these challenges, she became the first woman licensed to practice medicine in Quebec in 1900. LeVasseur had a particular interest in pediatrics and recognized the need for specialized healthcare facilities for children. Alongside her colleague, Dr. Justine Lacoste-Beaubien, and the support of the community, she played a crucial role in the founding of the Sainte-Justine Hospital in 1907, the first pediatric hospital in Quebec.

Throughout her career, LeVasseur was dedicated to improving the health and welfare of children. She worked tirelessly to advance pediatric care and was instrumental in introducing new medical practices and treatments for children in Canada. Her efforts not only benefited the children she treated but also helped to elevate the field of pediatrics within the country.

Legacy

Irma LeVasseur's contributions to medicine and her pioneering role as one of the first female physicians in Quebec have left a lasting legacy. She broke barriers for women in the medical profession and played a key role in the development of pediatric healthcare in Canada. The Sainte-Justine Hospital continues to be a leading institution for children's healthcare, serving as a testament to her vision and dedication.

LeVasseur's work has been recognized through various honors and memorials, highlighting her impact on Canadian medicine and her role as a trailblazer for women in the field.

Death

Irma LeVasseur passed away on January 18, 1964, leaving behind a legacy of medical innovation and advocacy for children's health care.