Story Behind The Song

Elizabeth Blackwell (1821-1910) overcame great opposition to become the first woman doctor in America. After receiving 28 rejections from medical schools, she was accepted by Geneva Medical College, but only because it was believed her application was a joke. In spite of the prejudice she experienced, she graduated first in her class. Later Miss Blackwell fought an uphill battle to open the first hospital staffed by women physicians and the first medical college to train women doctors. It was her dedication to creating a medical community for women, children and the poor that ultimately distinguished her as a true medical pioneer.

Song Description

Elizabeth Blackwell wants to become a doctor in an age when there are no women doctors. She will not give up on her dream, and, with persistence and perseverance, eventually triumphs and becomes first woman doctor in America.

Lyrics

"Doctor"
(By Jonathan Sprout)

A young girl with a dream to heal
Grows up in an unjust world
Where only men can operate.
As smart as the brightest man,
She learns everything she can,
But her dream will just have to wait.

Refrain:
She wants to be a doctor.
The medical world is inflamed!
She wants to be a doctor.
Why is she not so ashamed?

Twenty-seven, twenty-eight rejections
At last an acceptance note.
So many say, "She'll never pass!"
She proves she can make the cut.
Opens doors that had once been shut.
Graduates first in her class!

Refrain:
She wants to be a doctor.
What a bizarre request!
She wants to be a doctor.
How did she pass the test?
She wants to be a doctor.
A woman could never endure!
She wants to be a doctor.
Only a man can cure!

Such a narrow thought: "Dr." has to be a man.
Then along comes Bessie with her plan.

Refrain

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