Who I am
I am a dual British-Dutch citizen, an influential patient advocate, strategic consultant, and dynamic public speaker dedicated to advancing a truly patient-centered approach across the healthcare continuum. Drawing on both my professional expertise and lived experience, I champion meaningful patient engagement, fostering collaboration between industry leaders, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and patient advocacy organizations.
Why
My advocacy is deeply personal. Following my experience with the side effects of chemotherapy in 2012–2013, I became a dedicated voice for cancer patients and survivors. As the founder of the Patient Inclusive Advocacy Foundation, formerly known as the HungerNdThirst Foundation, I lead initiatives that address unmet patient needs, amplify patient perspectives, and drive positive change in healthcare systems.
I am driven by the conviction that healthcare must see, hear, and empower the patient as a true partner. My personal experience with cancer and its treatment revealed the gaps and challenges patients face, inspiring me to amplify patient voices, foster collaboration, and drive systemic change. At the heart of my mission is the belief that patient-centered care leads to better outcomes, greater equity, and more humane healthcare systems.
My Specialties
Advisory & Committee Work – Contributing expertise to boards and selection committees such as ASCO Foundation and GSK Health Advisory Board.
Patient Advocacy & Engagement – Championing patient voices in healthcare decision-making and policy.
Patient-Centered Healthcare Strategy – Advising organizations on integrating patient perspectives into care models and research.
Cross-Sector Collaboration – Building bridges between patients, industry, healthcare professionals, and policymakers.
Public Speaking & Thought Leadership – Delivering impactful talks on patient experience, inclusion, and health equity.
Cancer Survivorship & Lived Experience Expertise – Using personal experience to inform and inspire advocacy initiatives.
Foundation & Program Leadership – Founding and leading patient-focused initiatives like Patient Inclusive Advocacy Foundation, formerly known as the HungerNdThirst Foundation.