Many came to think of her as “the mother of birth control” in Canada. In fact, Marion’s reach extended farther to many of the sexual health-related programs and services that we, both women and men, now take for granted.
Women’s College Hospital and Organon Canada paid tribute to the career of Dr. Marion Powell by creating an award in her honour. The Marion Powell Award was established in 1995. It was presented annually to a person who demonstrated strong leadership, commitment, and dedication in the field of women’s health.
Sadly, Dr. Powell passed away unexpectedly on December 21, 1997. Her loss was felt by many throughout Canada. Tributes to Dr. Powell described her as kind, trustworthy, knowledgeable, modest, courageous, and passionate.
Dr. Powell was a trailblazer and trusted authority in the field of sexual and reproductive health in Canada. She dedicated her life to improving access to birth control. She advocated for safe and effective birth control options for women.
Dr. Powell often challenged society and the medical community. She encouraged people to think differently about relevant issues – no matter how controversial. She fought for the legalization of birth control, sex education in the classroom, and access to safe abortion. She helped to advance government policy and Canadian law in the process.
Her compassion earned her the respect of a generation of young Canadians. Dr. Marion Powell will forever be remembered as the Mother of Birth Control in Canada.
