Jennie Smillie Robertson

Jennie Smillie Robertson (February 10, 1878 – February 26, 1981) was a pioneering Canadian physician and surgeon, recognized as the first woman to perform surgery in Canada. Her contributions to the medical field, particularly in gynecology, and her efforts to open the profession to women, mark her as a significant figure in Canadian medical history.

Early Life and Education

Jennie Smillie was born in Athol, Prince Edward County, Ontario. From a young age, she showed a keen interest in pursuing a career in medicine, a field largely dominated by men at the time. Despite societal expectations and financial challenges, Smillie was determined to pursue her medical education. She attended the University of Toronto, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine in 1909. Smillie's journey through medical school was fraught with challenges, including discrimination and lack of access to the same resources and opportunities as her male counterparts.

Medical Career

After graduating, Smillie Robertson faced significant barriers in finding a hospital willing to allow her to practice surgery due to her gender. Undeterred, she traveled to the United States to gain surgical experience, working in hospitals that were more accepting of female surgeons. Upon her return to Canada, she continued to face resistance but eventually gained privileges to perform surgery at the Women's College Hospital in Toronto, making history as the first woman to perform surgery in Canada.

Throughout her career, Dr. Robertson specialized in gynecology and obstetrics, areas where she felt she could make the most significant impact on women's health. She was a strong advocate for women's rights, particularly in the medical profession, and worked tirelessly to ensure that women had equal opportunities to pursue careers in medicine.

Legacy

Dr. Jennie Smillie Robertson's legacy is one of perseverance, dedication, and groundbreaking achievements in the face of adversity. She paved the way for future generations of women in medicine, demonstrating that gender should not be a barrier to achieving one's goals in any profession. In recognition of her contributions, she received numerous awards and honors, including being named a member of the Order of the British Empire.

Dr. Robertson's work extended beyond her medical practice. She was a founding member of the Federation of Medical Women of Canada, an organization that continues to advocate for women physicians and women's health issues.

Death and Honours

Jennie Smillie Robertson passed away on February 26, 1981, at the age of 103. Her life and work have been commemorated in various ways, including the naming of the Dr. Jennie Smillie Robertson Award, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of women in the medical profession.

See Also

• Women in medicine
• History of surgery
• Federation of Medical Women of Canada