This year, I had the opportunity to support a funding proposal in the field of regenerative medicine for osteoarthritis, a project that resonated with me on a personal level.
A few weeks ago, I underwent knee replacement surgery due to osteoarthritis. Thankfully, the surgery was a success. Although the road to full physical recovery is extensive, I look forward to a future without pain and restored mobility.
More than ever, I am aware that we should not take being healthy for granted and that research is important for our health and well-being. In my first year as an independent funding consultant, I have had the honour of working with researchers dedicated to improving healthcare. By better detection and treatment of high-incidence chronic diseases, rare diseases and mental disorders, and by disease prevention through lifestyle and social care. All these efforts aim to help patients and make healthcare more effective, accessible, affordable and sustainable. This journey, which I embarked upon 35 years ago when choosing my university studies, continues to inspire and energize me.
As for the outcome of the regenerative medicine proposal? I am eagerly hoping for the opportunity to congratulate the researcher in the new year.