Hello American Porphyria Community

My name is Jessica Rivera, and I am honored to introduce myself as the new Director of Patient and Physician Services at the American Porphyria Foundation.

Research has been the foundation of my career for over 15 years. I began as a volunteer on projects at University of Connecticut and later advanced my work at Yale in fields ranging from Hematology/Oncology to Neurology, Internal Medicine, and Infectious Disease. Throughout these experiences, my mission has remained constant: to make a meaningful impact for patients by ensuring they are not only heard, but also comforted, guided, and treated with the highest ethical standards in both medical practice and medical advice.

At the American Porphyria Foundation, my commitment is to walk hand in hand with patients and families, always keeping the patient first. Too often, individuals with Porphyria have felt forgotten, overlooked, or even dismissed as “crazy.” I want to assure you that every patient’s journey matters, and every experience will be valued. We will take in the full scope of what patients share about living with this illness and use those voices to drive greater awareness, understanding, and research worldwide.

Together, we will continue to advocate, raise awareness, and push forward research so that patients receive the recognition, care, and treatment they deserve. I will also assure that Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Nurses receive Expert reviewed educational materials and opportunities.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve this community, and I look forward to working alongside all of you as we build a stronger future, one where the patient remains at the very center of everything we do.

Jessica A. Rivera