Lucy Johnson has been appointed as a new Mesothelioma UK Clinical Nurse Specialist to provide care and support for mesothelioma (asbestos-related cancer) patients in and around Portsmouth. Lucy will be based at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, part of Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust. She will also work as a Pleural Clinical Nurse Specialist, the first such role in the hospital.
In her new role, Lucy will be supporting patients through diagnosis, investigations, treatment, and symptom control such as managing breathlessness and pleural effusions. Lucy will work as a core member of the Multi-Disciplinary Team and will also work alongside existing Mesothelioma UK Clinical Nurse Specialist, Anne Moylan.
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.
Prior to this new position, Lucy has been a nurse and Senior Sister for 11 years, focusing on critical care, mostly in London hospitals.
Commenting on her new role, Lucy said: “I am delighted to join Mesothelioma UK as a new Clinical Nurse Specialist and the first pleural nurse specialist in the hospital. I have always had an interest in cancer care and moved around hospitals in London to get more experience in the sector. I’m aware of the devastating impact that mesothelioma has on people’s lives so am looking forward to working in Portsmouth and helping patients there, supporting them with life-changing situations and at vulnerable times.”
Head of Nursing for Mesothelioma UK, Leah Taylor added: “We are incredibly excited to welcome Lucy to our team, bringing her expertise and knowledge to strengthen the support available to patients, families and other healthcare professionals. We know that she will be a huge support to those affected by mesothelioma in Portsmouth, whilst providing care for those who need our help.”
