Doctor M. Frederic Niedfield MD, MMS | |
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| Personal | |
| Born | June 16, 1920 Brooklyn, New York |
| Died | March 19, 2007 (aged 86) Orange, California |
| Religion | Roman Catholic |
| Nationality | American |
Eileen Rae Niedfield (1920–2007), in religious life Sr. Mary Frederic Niedfield, MMS, MD, FACS was a surgeon and general physician in India for nearly 40 years, two in Bhutan. Graduating in 1951, she was notable for being in the first cohort of Georgetown University Medical School alumni that included women. She was valedictorian, and received the highest national board grades in pathology in the United States.[1] Some students have called for the university to name a medical pavilion after her.
In her work in India and Bhutan from 1955 to 1992, she served many Muslim women whose husbands and fathers would not allow them to be treated by male doctors. Some of the postings were remote, where people otherwise had no access to medical care. Her work brought her to the attention of Mother Teresa, whose nursing sisters shared training and facilities with her congregation.
When she returned to the United States in 1992, she moved to San Diego to serve HIV and AIDS patients because she believed the need was great. Her dedication extended further through part-time volunteer work at St. Vincent de Paul Village-Joan Kroc Medical Clinic for individuals experiencing homelessness.
- ^ "News and Personals". Medical Annals of the District of Columbia. XX (8). Washington, DC: Medical Society of the District of Columbia: 453. 1951.