As a medical school research intern, I joined the DICKENS-2 project in late 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little did I know the unforgettable adventure that awaited me. The highlight of the project was attending the WONCA conference in Brussels.

In late 2021, not even two years ago, when the Netherlands was once again under a strict lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic, I became part of the DICKENS-2 project as part of my research internship in my third Master's year. The project was coordinated by the Department of General Practice at the Julius Center, focusing on the effects of COVID-19 (no surprise there) on the diagnostic process for oncology patients in primary care. My research focused on patients with colorectal cancer. This study revealed a significant delay in the diagnostic process for this group of patients during the first Covid wave. It was a concerning finding but one that offers opportunities for policymakers to consider for future reference, with the hope of preventing similar situations.

The DICKENS-2 project had a wonderful research team led by Charles Helsper and Matthew Grant. Despite the pandemic restrictions, they managed to make research truly enjoyable. Their enthusiasm motivated me to contribute to the research, especially given the urgency and relevance of COVID-19 at that time. My mentors were so impressed with my scientific report that they encouraged me to submit it for the William Pickles Award. This award is presented annually by the Julius Center for the best general practice research internship, established to promote research in general practice. Not long after I submitted, I received a call that I had indeed won the award. I felt honored. The award ceremony took place during a Christmas dinner organized by the Department of General Practice. I was also allowed to submit my abstract for the 28th WONCA World Conference of Family Doctors in Brussels.

Months went by, and I had almost forgotten about my abstract submission when a 'notification of acceptance' appeared in my inbox. I could hardly believe it, but I was secretly quite proud. In Brussels, I joined a group of around 50 GP trainees. It turned into an unforgettable mid-week of engaging discussions and a lot of social activities. From an internship during a lockdown to presenting at the European Conference of Family Doctors – life can take some unexpected turns.

Jesse van Weelderen

Article based on the internship

Helsper CW, Van Gils CH, Van Erp NF et al. Impact of the COVID-19 Outbreak—Delayed Referral of Colorectal and Lung Cancer in Primary Care: A National Retrospective Cohort Study. Cancers 2023, 15, 1462. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15051462