![Frances Oldham Kelsey Frances Oldham Kelsey](http://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/thumbs/frances-oldham-kelsey-1.jpg)
As part of the FDA, Frances Oldham Kelsey prevented thalidomide from being allowed in the US drug market as a painkiller, as she was unsure of its impact. Her concerns were proved right when the drug caused birth defects in European children. She was subsequently awarded by the US president.