Helvidis (fl. 1136)

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Helvidis (fl. 1136)

French physician. Name variations: Heluidis. Flourished in 1136 in Lille, France.

Helvidis, who worked as a physician and lay healer, has the distinction of being the first woman doctor of northern Europe who is listed as such in contemporary records. Her name and occupation are found in a listing of benefactors of a small church, built around 1136. Unfortunately, nothing else is known about Helvidis' life or work.

Laura York , Riverside, California

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