APFED Featured on Advocacy Podcast

In a recent episode of Patient Advocacy Voices by Sanofi, APFED Executive Director Mary Jo Strobel joined hosts Eric Racine and Preeya George-Guiser to share how APFED is driving change for those living with eosinophil-associated diseases.

Strobel reflected on her personal journey into advocacy, which began with volunteer work and deepened after a family member’s diagnosis with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). She highlighted APFED’s grassroots origins and its evolution into a national organization with a mission to improve lives through education, research, and policy change.

The discussion explored APFED’s approach to turning awareness into action, from national campaigns like World EoE Day to targeted education efforts that support earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. A standout moment included the impact of a Times Square awareness billboard—where a passerby recognized their symptoms in real time.

Strobel emphasized that APFED’s strategy is driven by data and patient input. Initiatives like the Life with EoE report offer a blueprint for meeting real-world needs, while the organization’s policy and provider outreach are grounded in measurable insights.

As Strobel reflected on her leadership approach, she emphasized a guiding principle that shapes APFED’s work: “Keep the patient front and center of everything.” Whether it is awareness, policy, or research, every decision, she said, must come back to what best serves the community.

Listen to the Full Episode
“Building Awareness, Driving Change: Inside APFED’s Strategy for Rare Disease Advocacy”
Available now on:  Patient Advocacy Voices, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and More