Ask the expert: who are research nurses and what do they do?
Jane Cooper, Rebekah Lewis and Rosie Williams. Research Nurses at Birmingham Children's Hospital (BCH)
Jane Cooper, Rebekah Lewis and Rosie Williams. Research Nurses at Birmingham Children's Hospital (BCH)
Carrie Wright’s daughter, Lucy, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in August 2018. She writes on participating in the international MiNivAN clinical trial and offers advice to others faced with making decisions about their child’s treatment.
Helen Pearson and Katie Johnson, co-chairs of the National Neuroblastoma Nursing Group (NNNG), tell us more about how they have developed a range of animation videos to help parents make decisions about their child’s treatment as part of a neuroblastoma clinical trial
Dr Amandeep Samrai, Consultant Clinical Psychologist in Paediatric Oncology at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, writes on the impact that a childhood cancer diagnosis can have on emotional health and wellbeing. She offers tips on self-care and coping strategies, and explains where to access support.
Kate Beddow uses types of complementary therapies such as Reiki and journalling to help the wellbeing of families affected by childhood cancer. Here, she tells us more.
Caitlin Shorricks’ daughter Theía was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in May 2020. She explains how a special vest she created to protect Theia is now helping other families caring for children with cancer.
Complementary therapies can play a part in supporting children and teenagers through treatment by offering relaxation and calmness. They are typically used alongside a patient’s standard medical treatment and though they do not treat or cure cancer, they can offer relief from symptoms and help promote feelings or emotional or physical wellbeing.
Lauren Murrell was diagnosed with leukaemia aged 23. She tells us how her experiences inspired her into business with her sister to help others get back to themselves through wellness products.
When Beth Kellie’s son Kai was diagnosed with leukaemia, she struggled to maintain her mental and physical health while adjusting to life during his treatment. She writes on how she learnt to look after her own wellbeing and the importance of doing so.