Women in Science Day 2021

To raise awareness of women in the field of science, HHT Germany interviewed Dr Stolzel, Oberärztin HNO der Charité Berlin, recently about her work and her connections with HHT patients.

Question 1: What triggered your passion for science?

My passion for science was triggered in my childhood and youth. At school, natural sciences were my favourite subjects and in my free time I was involved in working groups such as photography, electronics, model building and nature care.

Question 2: How did you develop an interest in HHT?

During my time as an assistant doctor I had my first contact with HHT patients. I learned how to treat the nose with the laser. Due to the necessity of repeated treatments, the interest in the disease pattern and the fate of the patients grew. This also led me to the local self-help organisation.

Question 3: How does your work impact the lives of patients with HHT?

I think I can relieve the patients’ discomfort regarding upper airway bleeding. Thanks to the network at our clinic, I am able to provide diagnostics and therapy for the other organs.

Question 4: What struggles does a woman involved in science have to face?

From my point of view it is difficult for a woman to combine scientific research with a satisfying family and social life. Furthermore, you have to counteract occasional prejudices, by standing “one’s ground” in the business of science. This can lead to inner conflicts, but strong will and stamina, together with a supporting environment, help overcome these conflicts.

Question 5: What message would you like to give to young girls interested in becoming scientists?

Young girls or women should definitely make their way into the sciences. But they should make conscious decisions and organize their lives well to be satisfied later.

The contact with many patients with HHT brought me closer to their problems and helped me to build up networks.