Leukaemia CARE has launched its first leukaemia nurse specialist in a bid to directly help and provide advice, information and support to haematology patients. The first hospital to receive a Leukaemia CARE Nurse is the Royal Free Hospital in London however we hope to increase the number of these nurses to operate in other hospitals across the UK in the coming years. We realise how important the role is for our patients and hope to extend the hospital work we do.
Providing advice and support for a blood cancer patient can be difficult, and while medical staff are more than equipped to do so, the recovery process of a blood cancer is lengthy and a patient’s needs can change quite radically over the months and years. It is important, therefore, to have a key contact – somebody who knows the patient and their blood cancer history.
The Leukaemia CARE Nurse provides a point of contact between the patient and the hospital. From organising treatments, to arranging follow-up dates, to ensuring the patient and their family and friends are supported, to providing medical guidance, the role is important and tailored to each individual. The new role is part-funded by Leukaemia CARE, initially on a two-year basis. All aspects of care, from the way the patient has handled their chemotherapy, to their treatment history, to their personal home-life, is catered for by the Leukaemia CARE Nurse and therefore the position helps in creating a bond between patient and medic.
Everyone tells me time heals but they don't say how long. I am glad I have you all to chat to"