I have been trained at VIB where translational research and entrepreneurship are key values. The combination of scientific excellence and a clear business strategy is essential for leading ONA Therapeutics.

I think it’s very relevant that scientists, physicians, and patients can share their experiences because each of those groups has its own perspective on the issues. You notice that certain aspects are very important for patients, but that these same aspects often fly below the radar of the scientists and physicians. Vice versa, when patients come into contact with the research world, they understand that not everything can be solved in the blink of an eye.

The most important contribution of VIB to my career is that its directors and staff believed in our technology
and founded Actogenix. Without this company, I might have become a professor in Ireland or something else
somewhere else, who knows.

My cancer story is something that I carry with me. It is part of who I am now and will be in the future. My cancer journey was certainly not a 'cool' one, but there are people who have traveled much harder roads.

Seeing what happens emotionally to the members of your family is the most important side effect of cancer.