Behind every medicine is a story—a story of people who make it possible. In the series Where Craft Meets, Daiichi Sankyo explores and celebrates the people behind our medicines and shares how our unique crafts contribute to our collective mission to help patients.
Here, Andrew Perez-Viñas, Manager, Medical Review, U.S. Medical Affairs, shares his commitment to ensuring medical materials are clear, accurate and accessible—especially to those with limited health literacy or language barriers.
Facing Cancer in Two Languages
Growing up in a Spanish-speaking home, I was the family translator—a role that became particularly challenging when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. My family relied on me to translate complex medical information from English to Spanish, revealing how difficult it can be for patients and caregivers to understand important health information, especially in overwhelming situations.
I lost my mother when I was 13, and her strength remains a source of inspiration that guides my work. I always ask myself if the materials we create are easy enough to understand for someone with an eighth-grade reading level or for people who don’t speak English fluently. I want to make sure the information is clear and helpful so patients can learn about potential treatment options and feel confident making decisions.
From Pharmacy to Medical Review: Finding My Calling
I began my career as a pharmacy technician. I loved supporting patients by helping them understand prescriptions and stay on track with their treatments—experiences that inspired me to pursue a deeper role in patient care.
After pharmacy school, I joined a two-year fellowship program in U.S. Medical Affairs at Daiichi Sankyo. During this fellowship, I explored various roles and found my calling in Medical Review, which combines my scientific background with my desire to empower patients.
I partner with colleagues across the organization to stay updated about the latest clinical data and help the company make decisions on how to most effectively and accurately share information with patients, caregivers and healthcare providers. Even though I don’t meet patients face-to-face anymore, they are always in my thoughts. Every brochure or pamphlet I review could help someone better understand and improve their health.
My Craft: Translating Science into Trust
As my career progressed, I discovered that my craft is translation—not just between languages, but between complex science and accessible information. I see my role as translating science into trust—making sure that every message is credible, supported by data, and tailored to the needs of those who need it most.
My goal is to bridge the gap between researchers, healthcare providers, and patients, ensuring that everyone has access to trustworthy, actionable information. I feel I am exactly where I need to be—doing meaningful work that honors my mother and supports patients every day.
Watch Andrew Perez-Viñas in “Where Craft Meets”
Looking back, Andrew never imagined that the experience he had as a 13-year-old translating his mother’s medical information would lead him to Daiichi Sankyo. To learn more about this inspiring story of a fellow who transitioned to a full-time position, watch Where Craft Meets with Andrew Perez-Viñas.
Explore more videos in the “Where Craft Meets” series, featuring Daiichi Sankyo employees who embody shokunin kishitsu, or the craftsperson spirit.
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