I LOVE MY JOB
The impact of a cancer diagnosis is life changing, not only for the patient but also the people around them. I have had firsthand experience of losing a close family member to cancer, and it was that which started me on my journey to wanting to become an oncology nurse. Having experienced cancer from both a patient’s and family perspective, it helped me to understand the importance of the role of a key worker / Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) for patients and their support network.
The impact of a cancer diagnosis varies from person to person and listening and understanding each person as an individual, is fundamental and the basic foundation to a CNS role.
Having these skills equips me to provide tailored support, using a patient-centred approach. I enjoy the variety in my work and I get great job satisfaction by being able to help patients and their families during such a difficult time.
My first experience of supporting a patient with a Neuroendocrine Tumour (NET) was back in 2011, whilst working as an Upper GI CNS at a District General Hospital. At this time I had limited knowledge about NETs which posed some challenges. However, it was from this point that I developed an interest in the disease group, especially the variety of treatment options available. The opportunity arose to relocate to Manchester and join the specialist NET team at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust. Working at a specialist oncology centre had always been my dream and I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to join the NET team at The Christie and contribute to developing and improving patient care.