Pierra Vejjabul facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Pierra Vejjabul
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 27 November 1898 Lampang, Thailand
|
| Died | 20 April 1984 (aged 85) |
| Education | MD, University of Paris |
| Known for | Mother-and-child welfare |
| Medical career | |
| Profession | Physician |
| Awards | Order of the White Elephant |
Pierra Vejjabul (Thai: เพียร เวชบุล), born Pierra Hoon, was a pioneering doctor in Thailand. She was born on November 27, 1898, and passed away on April 20, 1984. Pierra Vejjabul was one of the very first female doctors in Thailand. She made huge improvements in healthcare, especially for women and children.
Contents
Meet Pierra Vejjabul: A Thai Medical Pioneer
Pierra was born in Lampang, Thailand. Her father, Trongkij Hoontrakul, was a successful merchant. Her mother, Phant Hoontrakul, was his third wife. Pierra was the youngest child in her family.
Pierra's Early Education and Inspiration
She went to school in Bangkok. She studied at Saovabha and Saint Joseph Convent Schools. Pierra finished secondary school in 1925. After graduating, she worked as a teacher. She taught at Assumption Convent and Saint Joseph Convent Schools.
A French doctor once helped Pierra's mother. This experience inspired Pierra to study medicine herself. She wanted to become a doctor.
Overcoming Challenges to Study Medicine
After finishing school, Pierra applied to medical school. She wanted to join the Medical School at Siriraj Hospital. However, she was not accepted. At that time, the school did not allow female students.
Pierra was only sixteen years old. Despite her father's wishes, she decided to leave Thailand. She traveled to Ho Chi Minh City (then called Saigon). There, she studied French for one year. Catholic nuns supported her during this time.
Becoming a Doctor in France
After learning French, Pierra moved to France. She studied medicine at the University of Paris. She worked very hard and graduated in 1936. After becoming a doctor, she returned to Thailand. She was ready to help her country.
Helping Mothers and Children in Thailand
When she came back, Pierra started working. She joined the Thai Ministry of Public Health. She had a big dream to help families.
Pierra founded the Pierra Maternity and Child Welfare Foundation. This foundation helped many abandoned children. Under her leadership, it cared for over 4,000 children. Her work made a huge difference in their lives.
Later, Pierra received a special honor. Princess Mother Srinagarindra gave her the surname Vejjabul. This happened when Plaek Pibulsonggram was the prime minister.
