Ellil Mathiyan Lakshmanan is a respected patient advocate, double cancer survivor, and EUPATI Fellow dedicated to advancing patient engagement and health technology assessment (HTA). He collaborates with healthcare professionals, institutions, and policymakers to amplify patient and caregiver voices, improving research, outcomes, and healthcare experiences.

As Co-founder and President of the Ostomy Association of Singapore and Vice-President of the Asia-South Pacific Ostomy Association, Ellil plays a key regional advocacy role. He serves on advisory panels such as the Ministry of Health’s Agency for Care Effectiveness and mentors emerging advocates. His global impact includes contributions to WHO and recognition with the President’s Volunteerism & Philanthropy Award 2024.

Living a Life That Matters: Purpose, Passion and Wellbeing

Abstract

Ageing is more than the passage of time —it is an opportunity to live with purpose, passion and meaning, regardless of health challenges. As a double cancer survivor and permanent ostomate, my personal journey has taught me that resilience is not just about overcoming adversity but about redefining one’s place in the world. In this talk, I will share how living with a stoma has enabled me to live fully and intentionally, and how purpose and passion can empower older adults to thrive, even when facing chronic conditions or disability. I will explore how community, social connection, and healthcare support can help nurture wellbeing and dignity in ageing. Through this lens of lived experience and advocacy, I hope to inspire reflection on how individuals can embrace ageing as a time of continued growth, contribution and self-discovery —truly living a life that matters.