I first joined The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in 2013 on the Conway Ward, before moving to the Delamere Chemotherapy Ward. Before I started at Clatterbridge, I had never been before and when I got the phone call offering me my first nursing post I knew I was going to take it.
I always wanted to work in trials, as I wanted to be part of trialling new treatments in the hope that one day they become a standard treatment and I now work as an Advanced Research Practitioner, where I manage the Gynae and Breast Trials, including early phase trials for cancer. It’s a fascinating and exciting field to work in, and my favourite part of the job is watching people ring the bell when they finish treatment. We give hope to patients and we aim to be able to offer breast trials to each patient that comes through our doors in the future.
Clatterbridge just has a nice ‘feel’ to it, it’s something you can’t explain. You can walk down the corridor and know most staff you pass, we all say hello to each other with a smile. Our patients appreciate what we do and we echo the values of Clatterbridge every day in ourselves, and in the work we do. We are able to get to know our patients, we become a vital part of their lives and to be able to share their journey is so rewarding.
I decided to support the Charity because of its vital role here at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre. This year has been extremely tough for everyone, from the nurses on the frontline to our patients. The idea that people can dedicate a fairy in memory of a loved one is a wonderful idea during this time. It’s so important to remember patients and what they have been through.
I am supporting the Fairy Appeal this year because now more than ever we all need to come together to support our patients. For some, treatments have been halted, some may have been delayed and some may have carried on - all during a terrifying pandemic, with no light at the end of the tunnel. Yet the hospital is filled with patients who continue to smile, carrying on as best they can in an unknown, and ever changing situation. So if you can, please consider donating to this year’s Fairy Appeal. Your donations change lives, and help to save lives.