Amanda will be based at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant to support asbestos-related cancer patients from across the country
Mesothelioma UK has appointed Amanda Matthews as its second Clinical Nurse Specialist in Wales to provide treatment, care and support for patients with the asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma. She will be based at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital, part of the Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board.
Amanda joins her Mesothelioma UK Clinical Nurse Specialist colleague, Ceri-Anne Maggs, who is based at the St Woolos Hospital in Newport, part of the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board. Together, they will support mesothelioma patients, support groups, families and carers from across the country. Amanda’s role will be funded by Macmillan Cancer Support for the first 17 months.
Amanda has spent the last four years of her career in practice nursing, where she will continue to work part-time. Prior to that, she worked in acute medicine and was also a PA in the NHS for over 12 years.
Mesothelioma is a cancer related to exposure to asbestos and predominantly affects the lining of the lungs. The UK has the highest incidence of the disease in the world, with around 2,700 people diagnosed each year.
Commenting on her appointment, Amanda Matthews said: “I’m looking forward to working with Ceri-Anne and lung cancer nurses across the country to ensure that mesothelioma patients get easy access to treatment and care, and to help them and their loved ones towards as positive a journey as possible with their cancer. In my new role, I am passionate about providing holistic care that supports patients and their families, ensuring continuity and compassion throughout their journey.”
Leah Taylor, Head of Nursing at Mesothelioma UK, added: “Thanks to the backing from Macmillan Cancer Support, we’re delighted to welcome Amanda to the Mesothelioma UK team. She will strengthen our resources in Wales to help patients from across the country to access the best possible care and treatment available to them.”
Katy Powell, Macmillan Professional Engagement & Improvement Lead, added: “We are delighted to be funding this important post in partnership with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board. Amanda has already become a valued member of the Macmillan professional community, and we are thrilled that she will be joining colleagues from across the UK at this year’s National Macmillan Professionals Conference in Birmingham in April. This reflects her commitment to the role and our shared ambition to improve the experience of people living with cancer.”
