Brenda Froyen (46), advocate for patient rights, has died (Moerbeke-Waas)

Froyen is a well-known name in the world of mental health care. In 2012, she was admitted to a psychiatric hospital due to a postpartum psychosis after the birth of her third son. Froyen later shared with the world how she was tied up for hours during that shoot. In the years that followed, she took on an activist role for better patient rights. Several other books followed: Once I’ve figured it out, I’m back to normal now and also some children’s books. She also wrote several opinion pieces and started a larger campaign.

But last year she had to realize how little had changed. “When I went through another psychosis last year, it just happened again,” she said this summer The Newspaper. “I have been admitted four times in 2023. Twice I was treated very well, two other times were traumatic. The first time in the isolation cell I immediately calmed down, because I knew the guidelines very well: as short as possible. But they left me there for fourteen hours. That is degrading.”

In the summer she told how she was planning a lawsuit against the two hospitals that had treated her inhumanely last year, for which she immediately started crowdfunding.

READ ALSO. “In my opinion, that was not a medical error but torture”: after several traumatic psychiatric admissions, Brenda (46) wants justice

But last weekend Brenda Froyen passed away. “Maybe you have already heard the heavy message I have to bring to you here: Brenda passed away last weekend,” her husband wrote on Facebook. “The warrior, teacher, inspiration, writer, friend and mother who you followed – and perhaps admired – through this channel is no longer with us.”

“I’m sure none of you will ever forget her, but today, hold each other tight, call that old friend, plant a flower bulb, take a photo of a banal moment together, reflect on the beautiful autumn sun today,” he continues. “Finally, on her behalf, I would like to thank you for the many wonderful moments she had with you. Your support has meant a lot to her, thanks to you she felt heard, supported and seen. Thank you.”