Riikka-Leena is a board member of the Association of Cancer Patients in Finland (Suomen Syöpäpotilaat ry) which is a NGO founded in 1971. The Association coordinates cancer specific networks, including a network for myeloma patients. Riikka-Leena is an active member and a volunteer of the myeloma network and a patient advocate. The myeloma network offers peer-support and provides a way to share information and receive feedback from the patients. The mission of the Association is to secure equal care for cancer patients, in addition to securing the well-being and a quality of life of patients and their family members. Riikka-Leena isalso a member of two Patient Advisory Boards at the Tampere University Hospital.

 

Riikka-Leena graduated from the University of Turku with a master’s degree in Geography. She has also studied Journalism at the University of Tampere.