my story

I grew up in a loving family in Midwest Germany. Together with my sister, older by 5-years, I experienced a carefree childhood, until my father was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. Suddenly, our world was turned upside down, and I found myself struggling with feelings of helplessness, unable to support my father in the way he truly deserved. My father, however, was a true fighter. Despite the relentless progress of his illness, he faced each treatment with unwavering courage, refusing to let cancer define his life.

Interested in medical research for years, I studied biology and pursued a career in cancer research. This knowledge opened up a personal path for me to support my family during these difficult times. As his daughter and primary caregiver, I stood by his side through countless therapies and hospital visits. Unfortunately, after 9 years my father passed away. 

Driven by a personal mission to make a difference, I came to the US to work at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies as a research associate in the field of cancer and aging. Volunteering at the Light the Night event with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) in 2022 kindled my desire to support blood cancer patients and their family. It connected me with their experiences, mirroring the journey my own family had embarked on. Since January 2023 I have been volunteering with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), focusing on patient and community outreach. My experiences even led me to Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., where I advocated on behalf of children impacted by blood cancer.

For me, this personal loss is a call to action:

I launched this website meant to guide you, and those in your community, on your personal cancer journey. I truly believe that knowledge and understanding of cancer will help you and your community make the best decisions in your journey. Here, I share my scientific knowledge about types of cancer and treatments, as well as resources that might be beneficial for you. In addition, my co-author Corey Jones-Weinert, PhD and I will explain basic biology concepts and highlight scientific discoveries and future medications in regular blog posts.

This website is a personal commitment to a cause that’s close to my heart: To educate and support patients and their family.

Let’s bring light and hope to those in their darkest hours.

Laura

my Values

1. Personal Growth
2. Family
3. Health
4. Service
5. Security
6. Respect

my vision

Bridging the gap between science and patient-centered care.