I was a patient at another hospital and had been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called Neuroendocrine Cancer. They advised that eventually I would be referred to Coventry, as they have a specific team that deals with this. Instead of waiting I called the Neuroendocrine Cancer Support line and they advised me about the unit at Coventry.

I called and got through to Louise. I presented very tearful, anxious, and scared, and as soon as she answered the phone, she spoke to me with compassion and understanding. She agreed to see me the next morning to talk through my diagnosis, and she also has such clear factual knowledge of Neuroendocrine Cancer that I immediately realised I was finally where I needed to be. 

On meeting Louise, she took time to explain and reassure me and my mother. She arranged an appointment with the specialist consultant, and from this moment she became my point of contact, and not just when she needed to see me, but if I needed to speak to her for reassurance. She is approachable, very understanding, and treats me in a very humanistic manner. Louise continues to treat me with respect, be my advocate, and provide general support. 

My journey is going to be long, and I'm only just getting to the starting line, but I feel so safe knowing that I have her by my side to do it. Being diagnosed with cancer is 100% the hardest thing I have ever experienced, but the fact that I have a strong, competent, and fantastic nurse to support me has really helped me through. 

Louise, you are amazing!

Note: This is Louise's 2nd DAISY Award!