UHDB nurse Angela hailed as an 'inspiration' at national awards ceremony
A colorectal cancer nurse at UHDB who makes "a tangible difference" in the care of her patients has received national recognition for the impact that her "clinical professionalism, coordination and compassion" makes for those she cares for.
Angela Gilmour, Colorectal Clinical Nurse Specialist at Royal Derby Hospital, won this year's Gary Logue Colorectal Cancer Nurse Award with Bowel Cancer UK - an award that is nominated by patients.
The judges praised Angela for going above and beyond in her duties, which included collaborating with other hospitals for one of her patients to ensure they are getting the best possible care, demonstrating what the judges called 'an excellent example of clinical professionalism, co-ordination and compassion, working together to make a tangible difference to someone’s healthcare experience.'
Reflecting on this recognition, Angela said: “Knowing that I have made a positive difference to somebody's life means so much to me. I am passionate about caring for my patients and it is a real privilege to support, reassure and advocate for them through what can be a very difficult journey.
“I am very fortunate to work alongside such a supportive wider team. Their knowledge, kindness and commitment have helped me to become the nurse I am and I could not do what I do without them.
“I accept this award with sincere gratitude; this recognition means a great deal to me and is a wonderful reminder of why I love being a nurse.”
Claire Coughlan, Clinical Lead at Bowel Cancer UK, said nurses play a crucial role in the care of people with cancer and make an enormous difference to patients and their families, guiding them through what is often an incredibly difficult time in their lives.
Claire added: "Our huge congratulations go to Angela for her outstanding work in the last year and her unfailing commitment to caring for and improving the quality of life of those affected by bowel cancer.”
Held every year, the Bowel Cancer UK Gary Logue Awards mark the achievements of colorectal nurses who make a significant impact on those affected by bowel cancer, provide exceptional care and show outstanding initiative.
The awards were established in memory of Gary Logue, to honour the contribution he made to those affected by bowel cancer during his career. Gary worked for Bowel Cancer UK as a specialist nurse advisor and passed away in 2014.
As a prize for winning the award, Angela has also received a £300 bursary which can be used towards professional development, training opportunities for her or her team, or enhancing patient experience.