Patricia Bottenberg

I have been working at the Netherlands Cancer Institute since 1993, initially as an oncology nurse, and then as a clinical nurse specialist. My field, gastroenterology, sees a lot of new developments, which makes my work fascinating.

I see my patients before and after surgery. I start by offering my patient and their loved ones information about the surgery, and see my patients afterward when they come in for a checkup at the outpatient clinic. Some of my patients have to be seen for years after their surgery. That is very special. The most important part of my job is being able to support my patients and their loved ones as their main contact person during their treatment.