About

My Professional Journey in Life Sciences

As a scientist with a deep passion for life sciences, I have dedicated my career to exploring the intricacies of the human body and its complex systems. With a BSc in Biochemistry, MSc in Applied Genetics and Biotechnology, and a PhD in Biological Sciences, I have honed my skills in synthesizing information and making correlations that can be easily understood by the public. My experience as a scientific researcher in R&D at a Nanobiotechnology laboratory has allowed me to contribute to the development of new biosensors for detecting various disease markers. Additionally, my time in the Pharmacovigilance department of a healthcare organization has given me a unique perspective on patient-centric care.

A Life-Changing Moment

In 2022, my life took an unexpected turn when our second child was born. Near Christmas, I received a phone call that would forever change our family’s journey. A laboratory had discovered that our child might have phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic condition that affects the body’s ability to process a specific amino acid (phenylalanine). As a mother and a scientist, I was overwhelmed with emotions. I knew the implications of PKU from my studies, but nothing could have prepared me for the challenges that lay ahead. In Romania, the support system for families dealing with rare metabolic disorders was limited, leaving us to navigate this new reality largely on our own.

The Importance of Nutrition

The first year of our child’s life was filled with sleepless nights, as I immersed myself in understanding the complexities of PKU and the crucial role of diet in managing the condition. After long searches I came into contact with a doctor and a nutritionist who aided me to understand how to calculate the natural protein, the protein equivalent and so on. And afterwards, I did the calculations by myself, because “I am doing a good job”. I learned how to calculate natural protein intake, protein equivalents, and the delicate balance required to ensure our child’s health and development. Through my journey, I connected with other mothers of children with PKU, and together we learned and grew, supporting each other in our shared mission of raising healthy PKU children. These experiences have ignited a passion within me to learn more about rare metabolic disorders and to pursue in the near future a BSc in Diet and Nutrition.

A Calling to Help Others

My personal experiences have fueled my desire to be a beacon of support for the PKU community. I know firsthand the challenges and overwhelming feelings of navigating this journey alone, without constant guidance from nutritionists and healthcare professionals. As I continue to learn and grow in my understanding of rare metabolic disorders, I am committed to sharing my knowledge and experiences with others who may be facing similar challenges. Through this website, I aim to provide valuable insights, practical advice, and a sense of community for those seeking to live a healthy life while managing rare metabolic conditions. Join me on this journey as I explore the fascinating world of nutrition, health, and wellness. Together, we can navigate the complexities of rare metabolic disorders and find empowering solutions for living a vibrant, fulfilling life.