Merel

What is your role and what gives you energy in your work?

I am a podiatrist. I find my job rewarding when, during a check-up, I realise that, together with the patient, I have been able to draw up a treatment plan that suits the patient perfectly. Namely, when the treatment plan is effective and reduces or eliminates the symptoms to such an extent that the patient can once again enjoy life to the full.

What is your favourite quote, motto or tip to help people get on with life?

‘Perseverance pays off.’ And by this I mean that it doesn’t matter if a treatment doesn’t work straight away. Together, through consultation and check-ups, we can keep trying to find a suitable solution.

How can you tell from your work that it really suits you?

Working with people really is right up my street. Through communication with the patient, I always try to work with them to find a suitable treatment or outcome. That way, I keep both the patient and myself happy.

What do you do outside of work that people might not expect of you?

My way of letting off steam is playing basketball, and I’ve been doing it since I was 9.