A shared motivation

Inge and Antoinette were first paired through Oncode Institute’s Patient Engagement Programme, with Antoinette conducting breast cancer research in the lab of Prof. Karin de Visser at the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI), and Inge bringing the patient voice into the scientific process. What started as a collaboration has grown into a supportive connection, one that now finds its expression on the slopes of Alpe d’Huez.

For Inge, who has been living with and beyond cancer for over seven years, this climb is about gratitude and responsibility. “The doctors at NKI and the science behind my treatment have kept me alive. Walking this mountain is a way to give back. I walk for those I’ve lost, my parents, my brother-in-law, my colleague Niels, and for everyone still fighting.”

Antoinette adds, “As a researcher, I know how important it is to secure funding for fundamental research. This challenge is a way to show my personal commitment to the people behind the disease, to make it visible that researchers don’t just work in labs, but stand with patients, too.”

What does “Giving up is not an option” mean to you?

Both women resonate with the Alpe d’HuZes motto, though in slightly different ways.

For Inge, the phrase evokes a lifetime of resilience. “After five knee surgeries and intense cancer treatments, I know what it means to push through. It’s about perseverance, hope, and staying in motion, physically, mentally, and emotionally. You adapt. You continue. Because giving up isn’t really an option.”

Antoinette sees that same spirit in the lab. “Science is full of setbacks. Experiments fail, timelines stretch, and results surprise you. But we keep going. We learn, adjust, and move forward. That mindset, of not giving up, is essential both in science and on this mountain.”

How are you preparing, and has there been a moment in this journey that stood out to you?

Inge began training in late 2024, gradually building up distance and endurance, recently incorporating incline work and focused physical support. “I train with help from a physiotherapist and podiatrist. It’s not easy with a medical history like mine, but the determination is there. I’ve had many heartfelt conversations during this process, it has reminded me how many people believe in the cause.”

Antoinette, balancing a busy research career and young family, has been finding creative ways to prepare. “Lots of stairs, evening walks, and weekend hikes with friends and colleagues. It’s a challenge to make time, but every step reminds me why I’m doing this. The climb is symbolic of the road we all walk, whether in research or recovery.”

Why are you committed to cancer research?

Inge and Antoinette are united in their drive to change the future of cancer care. Inge, as a survivor and long-time patient advocate, knows how crucial research is: “Fundamental science saves lives. It saved mine. I want to help ensure that cancer becomes a liveable disease, with better treatments, better quality of life, and a more affordable healthcare system.”

For Antoinette, the personal and professional are deeply connected. “I’ve always been interested in the immune system’s role in cancer. It’s complex, but every insight brings us closer to more effective therapies. That’s why we do this. It’s not just about data, it’s about people.”

What do you hope people will take away from your climb?

“This climb is more than symbolic,” says Inge. “It’s a statement. That staying in motion, before, during, and after illness, matters. I hope people feel encouraged and reminded that we are never standing still.”

Antoinette adds, “I hope people see how much heart there is behind the science. This climb represents our shared commitment, patients and researchers, walking the same path toward a better future.”

A strong partnership

Their bond, born of science, strengthened through trust, is what shapes this journey. Together, they’re not just climbing a mountain; they’re building connections between disciplines, experiences, and perspectives.

“I wish Antoinette a successful and meaningful climb,” says Inge. “She brings energy and compassion to her work, she deserves to feel the impact of what she gives.”

Antoinette reflects, “I wish Inge strength, lightness, and pride. She inspires many of us. Climbing alongside her is meaningful.”

Stay tuned for more updates as 18 Oncode Institute teams participate in this year’s Alpe d’HuZes. Also, follow our LinkedIn page, where we’ll share frequent updates.