“Last Monday, November 18th, my family and I had the honour to speak at the EACH (European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health) event, held at The Hotel in Brussels. Titled “Rising to the Challenge: Time for Action to Cardiovascular Health”, this was the second gathering aimed at advocating for a Cardiovascular Health Plan for Europe. The event united several key stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, industry representatives, and patient advocates, to discuss further actions that have to be taken to improve cardiovascular health across Europe.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the number one cause of death in Europe, and my family has unfortunately experienced first-hand how destructive and impactful cardiac events are. My father, Marc Rijken, and two sisters, Arwen and Beau were all diagnosed with elevated Lp(a); a genetic lipid disorder running in the families that increases the risk of premature cardiovascular disease, for which there are no approved medicines available as of yet. As ambassadors of the FH Europe Foundation, my family and I strive for early screening and detection and increased investment in research to develop medicine for elevated Lp(a) and other familial lipid disorders and CVD risk factors. We firmly believe that no family should, or has to, endure what we have experienced.
When the Cardiovascular Health Plan is accepted and implemented, this will increase detection of cardiovascular disorders throughout Europe before it is too late, and save many lives doing so. At the EACH event, my family had the chance to get our voices heard, and tell our story, urging the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to not only put cardiovascular health on the agenda but take the action that is needed! Being able to speak directly to MEPs both at this event, as well as at the kick-off event last year in Strasbourg has been very inspiring and has made our advocacy journey feel more impactful. However, what makes EACH event particularly special, is connecting with other ambassadors and advocates who share our vision for a healthier future. These moments of solidarity, with my family and others, remind us of the collective strength behind this movement and the importance of working together to reach our shared goal and drive change.
But, we cannot stop here. Our advocacy journey has only just started. The coming months will be crucial in the development of the EU Cardiovascular Health Plan. So, let’s all keep coming together for change, and hold our policymakers accountable for their commitments. Together, we can create a future where cardiovascular health is a priority for all. On to a better future.
#VOTEHEALTH 2024,
India Rijken <3