From a Trainee to a Fellow: Lessons from the EUPATI Faculty Week in Madrid

One year ago, I completed the EUPATI Patient Expert Training Programme — a transformative experience that reshaped my understanding of advocacy, knowledge, and collaboration.
This October, I found myself back in Madrid, but this time on the other side of the table — as a faculty member, ready to share lessons learned and support the next generation of patient experts.

From presentations, to breakout sessions

EUPATI Connect – Knowledge in Action

My week began with a presentation of one of EUPATI’s tools designed to empower patient experts across the medicines development process. Later, we discussed pharmacovigilance and self-reporting, emphasising that patients are not only participants but also protectors of medicine safety.
Seeing 102 trainees from 38 countries share their experiences reminded me that collaboration is our greatest strength.

Breakout Sessions – Learning Through Dialogue

In smaller group discussions, participants examined ethical principles and challenges in innovative therapies. There were no “right answers”, only shared understanding. This process of collective reasoning defines what EUPATI stands for — empowerment through learning.

The Power of the Team

My role felt easy, surrounded by extraordinary co-moderators, the faculty, and the organising committee. Their professionalism and dedication make each edition of this programme stronger than the last.

Health Technology Assessment – The Value of Listening

In a session led by Maria José Vicente Edo from the Aragon Health Sciences Institute, we explored the role of patient input in health technology assessment. It was a reminder that advocacy also means knowing when to listen, observe, and absorb.

Graduation and New Beginnings

Panel discussion at the EUPATI PETP final event, October 2025

As Cohort 8 concluded their programme, the graduation felt like both an ending and a beginning.
Eight years ago, I was “just a mom” learning to navigate the healthcare system. Today, I have the privilege to guide others on their own advocacy path.

EUPATI continues to prove that when patients are educated, empowered, and connected, systems change for the better.

And for the record, our stay at ILUNION Suites Madrid was a reminder of what true hospitality feels like. 

Thank you to their entire team for making this week not only productive but also memorable.