07/11/2017
Marie Curie was born on this day, 150 years ago. She is one of my heroes, not just as a fellow scientist but as a human being.
A woman of determination and perseverance and above all, humanity. Painstakingly crushing tonnes of stones and studying them, she and her husband studied radioactivity and discovered two new elements which led to their joint Nobel prize. Later, she was awarded her second (Nobel, of course) for measuring radioactivity. During the first world war, she designed a mobile Xray unit and used it personally in the front line with her first daughter, Irene. This is remarkable, a scientist who didn't just stay inside the lab but went all her way out to help others. After the war, she continued to research and teach until she passed away.
For me, Marie Curie is a person who defies all the odds and obstacles in life and who showed great determination for her achievements. Growing up in a time when women were not allowed for education, working on a subject when the facilities were rudimentary, and putting her belief into action. A woman of steel and compassion. A person I aspire to be.
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