New Clinical Nurse Specialist appointed to support asbestos-related cancer patients in Essex
Sam Jayasekara has been appointed as a Mesothelioma UK Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) to provide nursing care and support for mesothelioma (asbestos-related cancer) patients in Essex. The post is funded by asbestos disease support charity, HASAG. Sam will be based at the Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford and will also cover Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust’s other general hospitals in Basildon and Southend.
As part of the South Cancer Alliance, Sam will link with colleagues across the region to promote equitable access to mesothelioma specific support and treatment throughout the south east.
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.
Sam has been a lung cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist since 2015 and has had a variety of roles both in the acute and community settings. Much of her experience has been based around cancer and palliative care. In the past eight years, Sam has been supporting patients with both mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Sam will bring her expertise and knowledge to strengthen the support available to patients, families and other healthcare professionals.
Commenting on her new role Sam said: "I am excited and honoured to become a Mesothelioma Clinical Nurse Specialist. I hope to become a pivotal link for patients, families and healthcare professionals who have been touched by mesothelioma, providing them with the care and support that they need.”
Lynne Squibb, CEO of HASAG, said: “HASAG is thrilled to extend our relationship with Mesothelioma UK and have the opportunity to fund Sam’s post as Clinical Nurse Specialist. Our partnership will ensure that those diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases throughout Essex will get the best medical care through Sam and the best support through HASAG”
Head of Nursing for Mesothelioma UK, Leah Taylor added: "We are hugely grateful to HASAG for funding Sam’s post, enabling us to help more patients and families. We work closely with the team at HASAG and we always appreciate their support. Sam brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role, and I know she will be a fantastic addition to the team and be a huge support to those affected by mesothelioma in the Essex region."