Stoma nurse Lisa praised in letter from patient for being their "NHS Angel"
A Stoma Nurse at Royal Derby Hospital has been praised by a patient for being her "NHS Angel" while they undergo extensive treatment for a cancer diagnosis.
In a letter, the patient lauded Lisa Cockram for her holistic support to both themselves as well as their family, amid what they described as "devastating" diagnosis for which they are undergoing extensive treatments and surgeries.
This included following the patient's treatment journey; providing information on support networks and tips on how they can manage their concerns and access resources - including mental health support; and holding difficult yet compassionate conversations with the patient's immediate family, including very young children.
Following the patient's heartfelt letter, Lisa was selected as the winner of our Monthly Patient Hero Making a Difference Award, which was presented by UHDB Chair, Dr Kathy McLean OBE, in a surprise ceremony.
The patient who nominated Lisa initially came to Royal Derby Hospital for what was thought to be a routine check for abdominal pains, before receiving several serious diagnoses including the need for a stoma procedure, where Lisa became involved.
Aware of the impact this unexpected diagnosis may have had psychologically on the patient, as well as her immediate family, Lisa was sure to make sure the patient was aware of the support aware to them. Explaining this aspect of her role, Lisa said that "going above and beyond is essential" in ensuring a positive patient experience. She continued:
"Many people don't even realise just how impactful the role our team is. It's not been an easy ride for this patient, and it is really important that we provide some continuity and clearly communicate what their journey might look like - and what support is available to them.
"The patient's diagnosis was clearly a shock, so we promptly referred them to a cancer specialist psychologist as well as signposting them to as many resources as possible, and ensuring we checked in with them at every step of the way."
Explaining how her role has led her to have such a positive impact on the patient, Lisa explained: "Our care involves looking after patients with, or who require, a stoma: a surgically-made hole in their abdomen which allows waste to leave the body, without the use of organs affected by a challenging condition or diagnosis. This is commonly due to cancer diagnoses, but can include things like Crohn's Disease and many different emergency surgeries.
"However, as we work with such a wide variety of patients, that inevitably means that our work continues beyond this, working with a range of different teams and departments, and getting to know them as we support the delivery of their care both in hospital and at home.
"We take a holistic approach to all those who come through our doors and support them throughout their treatment journey however we can, and this patient is no different."
Presenting the award to Lisa, Dr Kathy McLean OBE said she was a "testament to the Trust and its values", continuing:
"Lisa has worked in the NHS for over 25 years, beginning her career journey as a cleaner in Theatres, leading all the way to her current role after years of development and devoted training. It is therefore no surprise that someone with this career story and commitment to others would take such an all-round approach, understanding that the care we provide to our patients goes well beyond solely the treatment they receive - and that every single aspect of care matters.
"This award is thoroughly deserved, and it is a pleasure for me to present it. She really is a 'Patient Hero' to someone who clearly is grateful to her both personally and professionally, and as an organisation, I hope colleagues like Lisa serve as a role model for everyone, no matter what role they are in."
Reflecting on Kathy's words, Lisa said: "For the patient to take the time out to write to us is such an honour and a testament to our team's collective ethos. This may be my award, but every single one of our team has a story just like this - and we all pull together in the same direction for our patients to ensure they are put at ease throughout what is often a difficult time."