Terminal cancer inspires nurse to create special room for patients
Michelle Milson designed the calm, private space ‘to be as homely as possible’, give patients some comfort and enhance their family’s experience
A nurse with terminal cancer has helped to create a special hospital room where patients nearing the end of life can spend time with their families.
Building on her own experience Michelle Milson, who works at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, said she was determined to do all she could to improve the experience of those facing ‘the worst situations’.
‘Everything I do behind the scenes is to make things better for patients’
Ms Milson was diagnosed with stage 4 terminal bowel cancer in February 2021, shortly after qualifying to be a nurse.
When her illness meant she was no longer able to provide direct care for patients, she took on a new role as a practice development nurse.
‘Because I’m not able to be clinical anymore, I can’t look after my patients and hold their hand,’ said Ms Milson.
‘But by doing this project I wanted to show my patients that I still think of them and that everything I do behind the scenes is to make things better for them.’
Room offers calm space that feels like home
The specially decorated room for those who are unable to be at home – or prefer not to be – provides a calm, private space for patients and families away from the busy ward environment.
It has an ensuite bathroom, hot drinks station, massage oils and a CD player. Each patient is given a ‘last wishes’ book they can fill in with their family.
‘When furnishing the room, I wanted it to be as homely as possible, so the patients and their families don’t feel like they’re in hospital,’ said Ms Milson.
‘I’d be quite happy to be in here with my family. I hope it gives them some comfort when they feel things like I have.’
Nurse also aims to create peaceful garden for patients
With the help of her colleagues, Ms Milson has so far raised nearly £5,000 to transform the room and contribute towards the cost of turning a courtyard area into a peaceful garden that can be enjoyed by families and staff.
‘It means the world to see the room finished and being used by patients. I know it will enhance both their care and their family’s experience,’ she said.
Ward manager Amanda Parry said: ‘Michelle has put her heart and soul into the project and has simply thought of everything down to the last detail. I am so very proud of her and the whole team.’
Donate to support Ms Milson’s project
Michelle Milson’s JustGiving page: Ward 3 End of Life Room and Memory Garden
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