Els, a former ENIEC member, was deeply involved with the organisation from its earliest days. She had a profound vision of life and was both beloved and respected, personally and professionally. Having worked in healthcare since the 1960s, Els left a lasting legacy. Her insights and interventions, particularly those shaped during the turbulent 1970′ s at Nieuw Unicum, revolutionised care by emphasising individuality, self-determination, and autonomy long before terms like “inclusion” became mainstream. She championed these principles in collaboration with various healthcare organisations and she did this primarily at the nursing home De Schildershoek.
Though Els primarily worked behind the scenes, her impact was unmistakable. She made time for others, offered perspective, and was a highly intelligent, strong presence. At the same time, she valued her privacy. Those who knew her fondly remember one-on-one conversations—whether seated by her desk or at her dining table.
Generations of healthcare students owe their success to her encouragement. Els recognised potential in students, even when language barriers or other challenges stood in their way, and guided them to graduation. She welcomed diverse perspectives with an open mind and was unafraid to challenge rigid management or training institutions. Her interventions brought meaningful change, and her opinions were always heard. She was the embodiment of being “strict but fair.”
A meticulous worker, Els documented everything, creating reports, preserving archives, and maintaining an exceptional memory for both successes and failures. She valued good arguments and constructive debate, tirelessly advocating for change and progress. Her influence extended beyond the Netherlands; for 15 years, she worked in China with the same dedication, earning respect and appreciation there as well.
Els also made significant contributions through the series of booklets “Understanding Each Other Helps,” which she developed alongside staff and students at nursing home De Schildershoek and Om & Bij, downtown The Hague. These booklets continue to hold value in Dutch healthcare and merit an update to reflect current times.
Since 2005, Els was instrumental in the creation of ENIEC, contributing to its early discussions, organising its first meetings, serving on the initial organising committee, and managing the ENIEC archive. Her big home in Scheveningen became a gathering place for the community.
Els dedicated her life to creating progress and a better world. She said goodbye in silence—graceful and dignified, as she always was.
Jan Booij
