Reflections on My First Anniversary as Healing NET Executive Director
February 2024
I am humbled, honored, and excited to be celebrating my first anniversary as the Executive Director of the Healing NET Foundation (HNF).
My involvement with neuroendocrine tumors began more than twenty years ago interacting with thousands of patients, caregivers, researchers, and physicians on the laboratory side of this disease as the Chief Operating Officer of Inter Science Institute.
Over the years I have seen so many incredible developments in NETs, but each time I speak with a newly diagnosed patient, I know we can do more. It is not enough to be comfortable with what has been done. We must continue to delve deeper to provide the best resources possible.
Over the past year, I have also joined several professional and international NET organizations: namely the International Neuroendocrine Cancer Alliance (INCA), the European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS); the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and most recently been invited to join the NETPact committee of the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (NANETS) to help advance legislative issues.
As my role within the HNF has evolved from Board member to Executive Director, so, too, has my knowledge of the many unmet needs in the NET community. As such, two additional new programs are being launched this year that we hope will make a significant impact in the lives of those who are touched by NETs.
The HNF Virtual "Conversations" will bring about much needed support for families on the patient and caregiver side of this disease. Initially aimed at children, this program has already expanded beyond this scope to include teens, young adults, and patients over age 30 who also need a place to share their wisdom, concerns and ideas with others.
This program welcomes all involved from your home including the patient, sibling, parent, and caregiver - each in their own space to share their thoughts, needs and dreams. Look for some fun online activities during these Conversations, too. Email me to sign up: miatepper@thehealingnet.org.
The HNF Virtual Tumor Board will bring expert-level case study exploration of challenging cases to NET physicians, researchers and allied care professionals. This program is aimed at the NET professional to continue to share and expand their knowledge of unique cases.
Email KaralynFaulkner@thehealingnet for more information.
Since joining the Board, I have seen tremendous growth in our outreach and look forward to continuing that success with both of these new online programs. Support opportunities are still available for each of these.
As a leader, I am challenged to put my skills to work and am happy to report that the mission of the HNF continues to be fulfilled in a meaningful and successful way!
Climbing with Family in the Dolomites
“There is a beam of light coming out of each of us. It, in turn, allows us to shine our light onto others. We are here to keep learning and growing.”
I hope that you will continue learning, growing and shining your light with us through all of the HNF programs and resources that are available.
Please know that all of us here at the HNF (our staff, the Board of Directors and our many volunteers serving on the Marketing and the Conversations Committees) are thankful for the opportunity to bring healing into your lives making a difference one patient, one caregiver, one allied healthcare professional, and one physician at a time. We thank you for the opportunity to bring inspiration into your world.
If you have any thoughts or ideas you would like to share with me or our team or would like to get involved, we welcome the opportunity to speak with you. Please email me directly (below).
Sending abundant healing your way,
Mia
Mia S. Tepper, MBA, Executive Director, The Healing NET Foundation, miatepper@thehealingnet.org
