Hi there!
Thanks for dropping by. Allow me to introduce myself: I'm an Advocate, Coach, and Speaker who's thrilled to have you here. Let me share a few things: I have an insatiable love for storytelling and an unwavering passion for helping people with pretty much anything. Sometimes, I might even be annoyingly helpful—I apologize in advance, my dear friends.
Now, let's be real: life hasn't been a walk in the park for me. But hey, whose life is without its challenges? Along my personal journey through cancer diagnoses, relationship failures, significant loss, and mental health crises, I've come to a profound realization: a life filled with twists and turns is a tapestry of true beauty.
Despite not being the best at it, I'm a dedicated joy seeker obsessed with self-care. Fresh flowers, breathtaking views, cozy attire, attention to detail, connecting with others, and unwavering faith are my everyday sources of inspiration. Selfies aren't really my thing, and putting things back where they belong isn't my forte. Luckily, I have Mr. Walker by my side, my life partner who nourishes my soul with love, stability, and delicious food!
“My life hasn’t been easy — But whose is easy?! Along the way, I’ve discovered that a complicated life is beautiful.”
The Bio.
Bringing together lived experience navigating cancer, mental health conditions, reproductive health challenges, and complex medical diagnoses with over 15 years of healthcare expertise, Vanessa Joy Walker advances patient-centered healthcare through innovative education and engagement strategies. As a sought-after Healthcare Consultant, Survivorship Expert, and skilled keynote speaker, she collaborates with organizations across the healthcare ecosystem to enhance patient-provider communication, integrate authentic patient voices into initiatives, and develop impactful continuing medical education programs. Her expertise in fostering meaningful dialogue and building resilient cultures benefits clients from healthcare systems, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and corporations focused on workplace wellness. Through her work with Psych Congress, where she serves on the Steering Committee, and as Policy and Advisor for the Depression Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), Vanessa brings authenticity and insight to conversations about mental health, survivorship, and healthcare innovation. A powerful advocate on Capitol Hill, she works alongside key coalitions to shape healthcare policy and champion patient voices at the national level. She leads Living After Crisis Inc., a non-profit creating spaces for women to build resilience while navigating the complex journey of survivorship and mental health. Her work as co-founder of the Breast Cancer Early Detection Coalition and her current pursuit of an MPH at UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health reflects her commitment to systemic healthcare transformation. As the author of "Make Room for Joy" (2020, Cloverleaf) and a contributor to major media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post, Vanessa's authentic approach to storytelling and deep understanding of patient experiences makes her a powerful voice for change in healthcare delivery.
Connect with Vanessa on LinkedIn for information and inspiration.
For collaborations and inquiries, email vjw@vanessajoywalker.com and join her in creating a world where health and well-being are human rights.
“The highlight of the program was our keynote speaker, Vanessa Walker, who knew precisely the struggles of our patients.”
NICOLE SANG, MANAGER NYC + HEALTH AND HOSPITALS - ELMHURST CANCER CENTER
