Sarah Myford, who is the Lead Nurse for Specialist Palliative Care in Bedfordshire Community Health Services, has received a Cavell Star Award. This is a programme that honours exceptional nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants for going above and beyond.
Sarah was nominated by her team for the invaluable care she has provided for palliative patients, along with their families. Her day-to-day role is often demanding, ranging from advanced care planning, emotional and psychological support to onward referrals to other support service. Her level of organisation and patient-centred approach to care was viewed positively by Cavell’s nomination review team.
The aim of palliative care is to make patients feel as comfortable as possible by managing their complex symptoms, so they can live well for as long as possible. The service ensures that patients can remain in their preferred place of care, which is often at home.
Commenting on her award, Sarah said: “I couldn’t manage this amazing service without the support of my team and their commitment to palliative care. This role is tough at times but hugely rewarding when you can bring comfort to patients and families in their time of need. Seeing the impact of my team reminds me why I chose to work in palliative care. What a privilege it is to be able to look after someone at the end of their life.”