Julia Holleman is a medical student at Erasmus University Medical Center and has completed a double degree in philosophy. Drawing on her experience of living with scoliosis, she combines the perspectives of patient, future doctor, researcher, and advocate.
As chair of I Love My Back, a foundation for young people with scoliosis, she works to create visibility, connection, and support through events, podcasts, artistic projects, and public dialogue.
Alongside her medical training, she conducts research at the department of Orthopedic Surgery at Erasmus MC, focusing on early detection and prevention of scoliosis progression through accessible home-based screening.
Her background in philosophy informs her understanding of illness as a lived experience that shapes identity and everyday life. She aims to challenge reductionist views of disease and strengthen the role of patients as active, meaningful contributors to healthcare.
