Jane Cummins facts for kids

Jane Grace Evans-Freke Cummins (born May 10, 1899) was an amazing doctor. She worked with the Royal Air Force Medical Services during World War II.

Early Life and Learning

Jane was born in Cork, Ireland on May 10, 1899. Her father, William Edward Ashley Cummins, was a professor of medicine at University College Cork (UCC). Jane came from a very large and talented family! She had five sisters and six brothers. Many of them became successful in their fields.

For example, her sister Geraldine Cummins was a writer who wrote plays. Another sister, Iris Cummins, became an engineer. Her sister Mary Hearn was a doctor who specialized in women's health. Two of her brothers also became doctors. One brother, Nicholas Marshall Cummins, even helped start the first blood transfusion service in Cork.

Jane's unique name, Evans-Freke, came from her mother's grandmother. This ancestor was born in 1775 and married a knight named Sir Fenton Aylmer.

Medical Career and Service

Jane began her medical studies at University College Cork (UCC). By 1923, she had earned degrees in Surgery, Medicine, and Obstetric Arts. This means she was trained to perform operations, treat illnesses, and help with childbirth.

In 1928, she completed a special diploma. This diploma was in Medical Radiology and Electrology. It taught her about using X-rays and electricity in medicine.

In 1930, Jane went to work for the Colonial Medical Service. She worked on the Gold Coast, which is now the country of Ghana. That same year, she also earned a Diploma of Public Health. This diploma focused on keeping communities healthy.

In 1932, Jane earned another important diploma in London. It was a Diploma in Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. This training helped her understand and treat diseases common in tropical places.

During World War II, Jane served as a squadron officer. She worked with the Royal Air Force Medical Services. After the war, she focused on helping children. She also worked with people who had Tuberculosis. She became a doctor at the Camberwell Chest Clinic in London.

Family Life

Jane married an accountant named David McFarlane Miller in 1934. He passed away in 1965. They had two sons together. One of their sons followed in his father's footsteps and became an accountant. Their other son chose to become a doctor, just like his mother.