Rare Connection 3rd Anniversary Episode With Dr. Margurite Goiter-Stam from Make a Wish International

Send us Fan MailIn this special third anniversary episode of Rare Connection, host Joanna Ball welcomes Dr. Marguerite A.W. Gorter-Stam for a conversation about quality of life, emotional well-being, patient-centered care, and the role hope can play during serious illness.What began three years ago as Nutrition Equity—a podcast focused on access to medically necessary nutrition—has grown into Rare Connection, a global platform connecting patients, caregivers, advocates, researchers, and healthcare professionals. This episode also marks the show's tenth international interview and features a guest joining us from the Netherlands.Dr. Gorter-Stam's background spans surgery, oncology, pediatrics, pediatric palliative care, and Make-A-Wish International. In this episode, we discuss how healthcare extends beyond diagnoses and treatments to include emotional support, quality of life, family-centered care, and helping patients navigate uncertainty.We also explore common misconceptions about pediatric palliative care, the importance of involving patients and families in healthcare decisions, and how hope and resilience can influence the experience of illness.Whether you're a patient, caregiver, healthcare professional, advocate, or simply interested in compassionate healthcare, this conversation offers valuable insight into the human side of medicine.Topics discussed:• Quality of life in healthcare• Pediatric palliative care• Patient and family-centered care• Emotional well-being during illness• Hope and resilience• Caregiver support• Make-A-Wish International• International perspectives on healthcareThank you for being part of Rare Connection's journey over the past three years.Support the show