Director

‘The stories of patients and their loved ones strike a personal chord’

Since January 2024, Mariël Croon has been the managing director of Dutch Digestive Health Fund. She is an experienced director, her last position being Director of Communications at Erasmus MC. Now she is fully committed to Dutch Digestive Health Fund.

‘At our events, I talk to many patients and their loved ones, or surviving relatives. Their stories touch me. In diseases like pancreatic cancer and oesophageal cancer, there is only a small chance of recovery. However, scientific studies give hope, and that is very necessary. I am glad that Dutch Digestive Health Fund can contribute to that.   

We also advocate for patients with more chronic conditions, such as IBD and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. These often affect people in the prime of their lives. The impact is huge. Dutch Digestive Health Fund wants to improve care for these people and represent their interests. 

We also want as many diseases as possible to be prevented. For example, through screening the population for colon cancer (bevolkingsonderzoek darmkanker). But also, by showing how to take good care of your intestines, for example by eating enough fibres.  

Our dream is to reach a healthy gut for everyone. We are not there yet, there is a lot of work to do. I think it is amazing to be able to contribute to this. And everyone can! Because it is important to realise that Dutch Digestive Health Fund depends entirely on donors. Anyone who makes a contribution to the Dutch Digestive Health Fund gives very specifically to a good cause. Every donor contributes to scientific research, improves patients' lives and helps prevent diseases. I hope you will join us in working towards a healthy gut for everyone.’