Stephen M. Sagar, MD

The book tells the history of the science of vitamin C in three parts. First, was the 400 year battle to understand scurvy. Millions of people died until a scientific approach to the disease could be developed. Second, was the race to discover the vitamins, fueled by egos and marked by fierce competition and remarkable strokes of luck. The third part began with the attempt by Linus Pauling to found a new branch of medicine and win a third Nobel Prize. Instead he jump-started the vitamin and supplement industry, where money is to be made as long as science is ignored.

Harriette Chick began her career at the turn of the twentieth century and became the first British woman since the eighteenth century to forge a career as a professional scientist. During her 40-year tenure at the Lister Institute in London she made fundamental discoveries in nutrition science and had a major impact on public health. Pathfinder describes her challenges and explains her unique success. The book brings her accomplishments and pioneering role to the attention of readers interested in medical science and in women’s history.