Elizabeth Blackwell

"The idea of winning a doctor's degree gradually assumed the aspect of a great moral struggle, and the moral fight possessed immense attraction for me."

"A blank wall of social and professional antagonism faces the woman physician that forms a situation of singular and painful loneliness, leaving her without support, respect or professional counsel."

"I must have something to engross my thoughts, some object in life which will fill this vacuum, and prevent this sad wearing away of the heart."