Cora is the newest member of our team and is joining us as our Medical Information Fellow! Cora, a recent graduate from the University of Connecticut, moved across the country to pursue a career deeply rooted in a cause she passionately believes in. Cora believes that everyone should have access to safe medication and wants to be part of the solution in increasing both medication transparency and availability of animal-free medications.
Why did you join the VeganMed team?
I was first introduced to VeganMed through an APPE (Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience) rotation that my pharmacy school offered. Throughout this rotation, I was continuously surprised by how big the need for animal-free medications was, especially considering that this topic was never broached in any of my schooling. I thought that what the VeganMed team did was absolutely amazing and I kept in touch after my rotation. When the team mentioned that they were looking for an intern, I jumped at the chance. I got to work on projects that I wasn't able to touch within a short 4 week rotation and help people that didn't have anywhere to turn to for information regarding their medication. When a fellowship position opened up, I decided I wanted to continue to help a population that was often overlooked (e.g. those with Alpha-gal Syndrome and other allergies). I feel that I'm really able to make a difference for the people who send in questions and at the end of the day that's what makes all the trials I've faced worth it.
What is your favorite animal-free product?
My favorite animal-free product is Love Beauty and Planet Body Wash. It's available at my local Target and I really love all the different scents. It's also an easy animal-free product to incorporate into my daily routine. Fingers crossed we can get them certified animal-free next!
What was the most shocking thing you discovered about the pharmaceutical industry when you started working here?
The most surprising thing I've encountered is the lengthy response times from some pharmaceutical companies. I'm receiving replies now for inquiries I sent over six months ago at the start of my internship. I've also heard about emails arriving for students who assisted us and have since graduated. This turnaround time, especially concerning medications that people rely on for survival, is quite baffling. This highlights the importance of the work VeganMed is doing. I can't imagine patients having to juggle multiple medications and contact various manufacturers daily, especially when it takes an average of 13 minutes to get an answer from just one manufacturer.
What was your favorite VeganMed project or initiative you've worked on so far?
My favorite VeganMed initiative I work on would have to be med info. Being able to help patients find suitable medications for their health needs is empowering and hearing their stories is motivating. It's incredibly fulfilling to know that our efforts are making a real difference in people's lives. Each day, we get to see the positive impact of our work through the gratitude and relief expressed by patients who have finally found medications that align with their health needs and values. Their stories of improved health and well-being drive us to continue pushing for greater transparency and accessibility in the healthcare industry.
What do you like to do for fun?
I like to hang out with my friends and have board game nights. My friends and I can get very competitive so it can be a little intense. We also like to have bonfire nights where we can have some pizza and s'mores and catch up with each other. I also like to try different restaurants and new foods that I haven't tried before. Over the next year, I plan to do a lot of exploring since I recently moved to California and I want to see all the sights I possibly can.
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on VeganMed is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates.
Looking for certified and verified animal-free products?
Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients!
As a reminder, please comment on our FDA Citizen Petition, requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference.
If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to reach out to the VeganMed team!
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