Get to know some of our members worldwide as they help raise awareness for ITP and support ITP patients and their communities.
Name: Mieke
Country: Netherlands
Organisation: ITP Patiëntenvereniging Nederland
How are you connected to ITP? I’m an ITP patient.
Describe yourself in three words: Honest, responsible and sociable.
How long have you been working in your organisation?
Immediately after being diagnosed with ITP in 2008, I became a member of the patient association. I occasionally did some volunteer work, and in 2018, I joined the board. My portfolio within the board is PR and communication. Since 2020, I have been the co-chair of the patient association.
What’s the best part about working in your organisation?
I believe it is important to inform people about ITP, whether they are patients, family members, or healthcare providers. I notice that people really appreciate the information our association provides. That makes me feel good, and I’m happy to contribute to that effort. In general, an ITP patient does not know others with ITP. Thanks to peer support, which the association organizes, ITP patients also learn from each other. This applies to me as well. Additionally, I find the connections with the International ITP Alliance to be very valuable.
What’s your hope for people living with ITP outside a cure?
ITP patients should avoid letting the disease influence them too much. Of course, it can be challenging at times, but I think it’s crucial to focus on what is still possible. I hope they (we) succeed in doing that.
Tea or Coffee? Coffee
Describe your perfect day.
I love spending the day with family and/or friends. I enjoy dining out and travelling, but I can also take great pleasure in our home and the garden.
If you could choose a superpower, what would it be?
Never get tired, and always be able to keep going with plenty of energy.
For more information about ITP Patiëntenvereniging Nederland, visit itp-pv.nl/home
ITP Patiëntenvereniging Nederland is proud to be a member of the ITP International Alliance GlobalITP.org