Abstract
Born: 1940
Died: 2023
Marjorie Allison entered Glasgow University in 1958, graduating first class honours BSc Physiology 1962; MB,ChB with honours 1965; and MD with honours 1976. Her prizes included most distinguished woman medical graduate of her year. She trained in the University Department of Medicine at Glasgow Royal Infirmary, specialising in nephrology with Professor Arthur Kennedy. From 1969 to 1973, as a research fellow in renal physiology in the University of North Carolina, she performed meticulous, pioneering work in animal models relevant to human problems.
Returning to Glasgow Royal Infirmary in 1973 and despite cancer and four major operations, she became senior lecturer and consultant nephrologist in 1977. Retaining her interest in clinical research, she devoted most of her time to clinical work and teaching. Her determination to do the very best she could for every patient was renowned.
Marjorie’s approach to medicine was influenced by her strong Christian beliefs. She enjoyed being active in the local church, entertaining visiting trainee doctors, visiting family in England and foreign travels.
In 1995 Marjorie took early retirement from the Royal Infirmary, working on the new undergraduate curriculum for the Medical School. She taught as a facilitator, clinical skills instructor, then third year coordinator. As with her clinical work, she was dedicated and meticulous, caring enormously for individual students, especially those who required additional support.
Retiring in 2005 at the age of 65, she continued her interest in medical history, collecting the story and instruments of James Bouglas, a country doctor in Lanarkshire. These were the basis of a Micromuseum in the Medical School, opening in 2009.
Marjorie gave so much to her patients and students and is fondly remembered by them and her colleagues.