About
My name is Sertaç (pronounced Sar-Touch). I am from Istanbul, Turkey.
I trained as an Economist at a time when the Turkish government was nearing bankruptcy. I love fixing broken things and have always had ideals of public service. Over the years, I have worked as a management consultant in Boston, USA, and held various management roles in pharmaceutical companies. Notably, I was part of the Turkish Lundbeck team that launched drugs for Alzheimer's, Parkinson’s, depression and schizophrenia about 20 years ago.
When my Mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and vascular dementia, I realised that my 13 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry were not enough to prepare me for this personal challenge.
I joined the Turkish Alzheimer Association, where I received immense support from nurses, physicians, social workers, therapists and other carers and became a board member.
I have always wanted to engage in advocacy and charitable work. Currently, I am also a Board member of Türkiye Yardım Sevenler Derneği İstanbul Branch, a 96-year-old Turkish charity.
During my Mom’s dementia journey, I gained first-hand experience and awareness regarding the stigma, fears, ignorance, apathy and barriers to reaching a diagnosis and adequate treatment. I also had to deal with challenges surrounding comorbidities, polypharmacy and the management of the behavioural aspects of this disease.
My Mom had two hip fractures, which accelerated the progression of the disease. She is currently at a stage where she cannot express herself eloquently. This has fuelled my desire to be the voice of patients and their carers.
Joining EDCWG is a great honour and opportunity for me. I am excited and looking forward to learning a lot from this community. In Turkey, there is a huge unmet need for financial, medical, and psychological assistance. I hope to improve the lives of carers and their patients.