Board of Directors

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I am currently an educator at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario and the director for Lipodystrophy Canada, and non-for-profit organization supporting lipodystrophy patients and caregivers.

Being a lipodystrophy patient myself, my advocacy for awareness started young. Interested in understanding the pathophysiology of lipodystrophy, my postdoctoral training focused on lipid inflammation and insulin resistance in animal models of obesity. This journey has allowed me to travel the world and publish important research findings in highly cited research journals. More importantly, my academic career has given me a unique perspective to patient advocacy, highlighting how important disease awareness and research funding for prospective treatments and are for our lipodystrophy community. 

Lipodystrophy can vary in severity however these themes hold in common: Lipodystrophy is incurable, has inadequate medical treatment and affects multiple organ systems. Unfortunately, a severe form of lipodystrophy has affected my family and myself, losing both my mother and sister to its complications at a very young age. This loss has only further intensified my passion to support our rare disease community affected by lipodystrophy. 

I am currently a doctoral candidate pursuing research in medical sciences at McMaster University. During my time in grad school, I learned the importance of communicating scientific research clearly and accessibly. It isn’t just about the data; it’s about empowering others with knowledge.

A pivotal moment during my grad studies that completely changed my perspective was when I met Sonia, a vibrant individual with lipodystrophy. Through her, I learned the relentless challenges she faces daily – physical pain, constant battle with fatigue, among others. Despite these hardships, Sonia continues to excel and radiate resilience that inspires everyone around her.

Sonia’s story sparked my passion to advocate for individuals living with lipodystrophy. Rare disorders like lipodystrophy often go unnoticed and underserved in mainstream healthcare. As a patient advocate, I strive to amplify marginalized voices, raise awareness, educate the public and healthcare providers, and ultimately contribute to a more compassionate healthcare system that truly meets the needs of all patients.