Janneke Oomens (1989) is an oncology physiotherapist from Breda. After completing her education in physiotherapy, she specialized as a lymphedema therapist. With that experience under her belt, she decided to further specialize in oncology rehabilitation by pursuing a master’s degree. Later, she expanded her skills by undertaking training to become an oncology support consultant.

Early in life, I was confronted with the disease cancer. Both my friend and I lost a parent at a young age. When I was 15, I lost my mother to melanoma, and my father-in-law passed away from esophageal cancer at the age of 49. It’s comforting to be able to find support and understanding in each other during these painful and powerless moments. It might sound strange, but that’s the reason I chose to specialize as a physiotherapist in oncology. I realized how rewarding it was to be able to do something for people who have experienced cancer. It has taught us to appreciate the small things in life and sometimes just enjoy ourselves.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP
An increasing amount of research is being published about the significant and positive impact of physical activity on preventing and recovering from cancer, as well as enduring treatments with minimal side effects. A major frustration in my profession is that I can’t help everyone, and that thought kept gnawing at me. Eventually, this led me to put my knowledge on paper and, together with my partner, develop an independent rehabilitation program that can be followed, allowing me to assist even more people on this journey.