Today’s Doodle celebrates Margaret Lin Xavier, widely considered Thailand’s first female doctor, on her 122nd birthday. Years ahead of her time, the medical pioneer opened her own clinic in the 1920s to provide quality care to those in need.
Xavier was born on this day in 1898 in Bangkok, where her father held a government position in foreign affairs. When his work required a move to Europe, she joined him to pursue an education in London. She eventually earned a medical degree from the London School of Medicine for Women and then returned to Thailand in 1924.
At just 26 years old, Dr. Lin became the first Thai woman to earn a medical degree and practice in the country when she was accepted to work as an obstetrician for the Thai Red Cross, Chulalongkorn Hospital, and a Ministry of Public Health medical facility.
She soon received permission from the Thai Red Cross to open her own private clinic with her sister, Chan Xavier, a pharmacist who was also trained in England. Dr. Lin provided services in obstetrics and gynecology, and she treated for free many of those who couldn’t afford her care.
Early concept of the Doodle
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