The plasma cell disorders team, as part of the Haem-Oncology Department at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust has been awarded the Clinical Excellence Programme award for the second time for their for their commitment to patients living with incurable blood cancer.
Myeloma is especially hard to spot as its symptoms are often vague and dismissed as ageing or other minor conditions. By the time many patients are diagnosed their cancer has often advanced and they require urgent treatment. This can significantly impact their chances of survival and quality of life.
The accolade, awarded by charity Myeloma UK, recognises hospitals’ commitment to raising the bar for treatment and providing compassionate and personalised care to patients.
Annette Hughes, Plasma Cell Clinical Nurse Specialist at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Patients are at the heart of everything we do and we work hard together to ensure our patients receive the best care, treatment and support as holistically as possible through their myeloma journey and this is reflected in us achieving this award.
“We can’t deny that the past couple of years have been challenging, with settling into our new hospital site in Liverpool amidst the height of the COVID pandemic, but throughout these times we have pulled together as a team and remained focused and dedicated to providing our patients with excellent care in high class facilities.”
The haematology team at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre was praised by Myeloma UK for its commitment to improving patients’ quality of life and eagerness to adapt to their needs.
Monica Morris, Clinical Practice Services Senior Projects Officer at Myeloma UK, said: “Myeloma is a complex cancer which can be challenging to manage so we were extremely impressed by the team’s willingness and ability to adapt and offer bespoke care. For example, they work extremely closely with the award-winning Enhanced Supportive Care Unit to ensure patients who need specialist palliative care are seen promptly. Each and every one of them is truly going above and beyond to support people affected by this lesser-known cancer and spread awareness of myeloma out in the community.”
Ian Lawless, from Grassendale, was diagnosed with myeloma in March 2018 and has been receiving care at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool ever since.
“The treatment and support I’ve had has been phenomenal,” said the 57-year-old, who knew something was wrong when he felt his rib snap while sneezing. “They go the extra mile beyond the extra mile. Having this type of support behind you makes it a damn sight easier. They’re very open and honest about my treatment and I feel we’re a team.”
“I’ve been in hospital about five times with infections since I was diagnosed, and every time they’ve come to see me in the various wards to check on me,” added the father-of-two, who is now on his third round of treatment. “Just any text or little query will be followed up. They allow me to carry on as normal. I don’t consider myself a slave to myeloma and it’s in large part down to the team.”
Well done to everyone!