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From Orphan To Beloved Nurse
- Jane Toppan (born Honora Kelly) rose from a troubled childhood to nursing training at Cambridge and became known as "Jolly Jane."
- Diane Ranney collected decades of records that trace her shift from well-liked nurse to accused poisoner.
Drug Experiments Dressed As Care
- Toppan experimented with morphine and atropine to observe patients' reactions and sometimes alternated them to cause collapse and revival.
- She also dissolved drugs in mineral water and presented them as tonics to patients.
Charm Hid Professional Gaps
- Toppan built a reputation for cheerfulness and compassion, earning private nursing work and the nickname "Jolly Jane."
- She was considered outstanding despite lacking a formal diploma after leaving school before graduation.