52. Dr. Ida Scudder

In this episode, Deepika and Kelli introduce us to the remarkable life of Dr. Ida Scudder, a third-generation medical missionary in India whose encounter with three women facing childbirth without access to female doctors changed the course of her life. Ida went on to earn her medical degree and return to India, where she founded a hospital and medical school for women in Vellore. Join us as we explore Ida’s story, her calling, and the lasting legacy of a woman who saw a need and responded with courage, compassion, and creativity. Also in this episode, Denise and Sarah talk about celebrating Halloween on the field, what they are afraid of, and what's coming up at Velvet Ashes. Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ and Instagram Featured music is "Doxology of Mercy" by ⁠⁠⁠Eine Blume⁠⁠⁠. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠Apple Music⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! Give to the work of Velvet Ashes We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast. Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. Check out the Unplugged Retreat Deepika Srivastava is Director of Church Relations for the Vellore Christian Medical College (CMC) Foundation, building partnerships with churches committed to global mission. Born at CMC, she is grateful to help advance Dr. Ida Sophia Scudder’s legacy by empowering the next generation and promoting compassionate, whole-person medicine. She also serves as a Deacon at Bethany Memorial Reformed Church, supporting people across New York City. She enjoys the beauty of God’s creation and hiking with her husband and adult children. Kelli Gilmore serves as the coordinator for marketing and communications for RCA Global Mission. She finds great joy in helping missionaries share their stories of how God is moving in their parts of the world and being part of their mission work through writing, editing, video work, and graphic design. When not working, she enjoys reading, completing DIY projects, and spending time with her husband, two daughters, and one year old pup.  Ida and the Three Visitors book Free curriculum to supplement the book [**Edison to India 5K**](2026%20Edison%20to%20India%205K)