Fiona was my very first contact with the Holman Clinic, some 6 or 7 years ago, when I was having treatment for cancer in between hospital bed treatment and going home. She first came to my hospital bed and explained very well the workings of the Holman Clinic. She became my nurse coordinator, a go-between my haematologist, other hospital staff, and departments, and she became the most important person in my treatment for 8 years. She made sure all the directions from the Doctor were communicated to me, as well as all the bookings for me to attend the Holman Clinic, as well as medications, transfusion drugs, blood tests, etc. There were many non-scheduled visits that ran smoothly. She was able to arrange surgery to put in a “smart port” when I needed one urgently, probably jumping the queue.

She also often used to check on my mental health and arranged professional help when needed. All through my prolonged treatment, many blood tests were required (and still are now – weekly). The results were conveyed promptly, and she referred any results needing the haematologists review – and then let me know the outcome (changes to medications etc).

She makes me feel that nothing is too much trouble, even though she is busy with other patients and other duties. I feel like she is a friend, and a little while ago, we joked that when I first went to the Holman Clinic, we both thought that I might not survive. I very strongly agreed.

Fiona has a wonderful “human touch” in what could be a very clinical long journey in dealing with cancer, and the side effects of the treatments. Fiona is and has been one of the most important people in my “jigsaw of life”. I hope you can consider her for a DAISY Award, as in my mind, I feel she fits the criteria and is an “extraordinary nurse”.

Fiona is a gem and has made a real difference, often going beyond what could be expected.