I am thrilled to announce that Dr. Fleur has accepted the Foundation’s invitation to join us as our first (Mental) Health Director! As most of you know by now, my expertise is in writing, business and organization, as well as patient advocacy. Oh, and I’m a cPTSD experience expert.
But I’m no medical professional, so that is one of the first roles I wanted filled asap from the moment we got started. And Dr. Fleur fit the bill perfectly.
With international medical experience in small communities with limited resources, a good command of Dutch, English and Papiamento PLUS a love for Aruba, she was at the top of my short list for Mental Health Director. Especially once she started working on second opinions, and kept being assigned cases with psychosomatic symptoms.
And to boot she’s a human rights activist like me, advocating for gender equality, access to education and improvement of public health.
Expect Dr. Fleur to add to articles on this site with how mental health and physical health are linked, and affect each other. Plus she’ll be able to explain the medical terms much better than I!
I can’t wait to see how her input, passion and drive will boost the Jeffry Stijn Foundation for Mental Health and Patient Advocacy to the next level!
Welcome to the team Dr. Fleur!
Dr. Fleur – (Mental) Health Director
Hi, My name is Fleur Ackermans-Deijnen, medical doctor and humanitarian. I came into this world, born into a welcoming, loving family in a small town in the Netherlands.
Since childhood, I dreamed about becoming a doctor to help the less-fortunate in this world. And to expand my horizon I have been traveling the world. I am a globalist and a people’s-advocate from the heart.
After spending 6 years in the rural areas of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, our family of 3 decided to make the move to Aruba. Not in the least to give my son access to proper education in a wonderful environment. Education is key.
I have spent my professional life trying to improve general health. And came to the conclusion that mental health is the one of the most important aspects in the feeling of well-being. I have come across individuals with life threatening injuries and diseases who overcame these with their great spirits, and I have come across people literally dying from a broken toe due to lack of mental stamina.
(Un) fortunately, I had to endure a period of mental strain myself recently. This has made me even more aware about the importance of mental strength in general health. I did not think mental issues would ever touch my existence, but… it did.
Everyone copes with mental challenges. From minor issues, to debilitating struggles.
For me to be able to help as a health care worker at all, we need to address these issues. And improve holistic health from person to person.
This made me realize that we have to start from the basics… You are heard. And seen. You are acknowledged.
Dr. Fleur
Aruba, 18 April 2023
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