This is the first of my new series - ladies in History -
Florence Nightingale was born May 12, 1820.
She was always more interested in making cures for her dolls sicknesses, then playing outside with her sister.
She never cared for such things as dresses and being rich. But, she got those things anyways because her family was very wealthy.
One day, while out riding, she came upon an elderly shepherd man. He was very sad because his beloved and loyal dog was hurt.
This was Florence Nightingale's first thing she cured.
In her home, she constantly thought of becoming a nurse. Though, if she mentioned it to her family, especially her mother, she knew they would have a fit. For nursing was not something a respectable young lady does.
Florence's family was so wealthy that she even publicly meet Queen Victoria.
After many, many years, she finally persuaded her parents to allow her to go to a respectable school for nursing. Florence loved it!
During the Crimean war in 1854, she and the staff of 38 women volunteer nurses that she trained, were sent to the Ottoman Empire.
The hospital conditions were horrible, but Florence Nightingale changed that quickly.
Because of her changes in the hospitals, so many lives were saved. She quickly became loved by all the soldiers.
When she fell ill with Crimean fever, everyone feared for her life. But, Florence would not give up.
When she was well again, she once again meet with Queen Victoria. When Florence told the Queen about the horrible hospital conditions, Queen Victoria promised to make them better.
To me, Florence Nightingale was an amazing woman. She made a way for other young ladies that are interested in medicine. She didn't give up and because of that she saved so many lives!
God has a plan for you.
He has given you gifts. Don't throw them away.
Your history gal,
Julia Ryan♥
