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Mum-of-five facing terminal cancer creates lasting legacy to hospital ward
A mum-of-five facing terminal cancer is leaving a lasting legacy to the ward she loves.
In February 2021, just after graduating as a qualified nurse Michelle Milson was diagnosed with bowel cancer. Her world turned upside down when she collapsed at work not knowing what was wrong, she said: “It was completely out of the blue. Unfortunately after tests we realised it was bowel cancer.
“At that time we didn’t know how advanced it was. I had radiotherapy with the hope of having surgery but unfortunately my cancer had metastasized into my liver so surgery became not an option.”
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Michelle is now on palliative chemotherapy and, prior to diagnosis, worked as a clinical nurse on ward 3 at James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough. She said despite the illness she didn’t want to leave work but was unable to carry out her role.
The hospital therefore created a new post and she became the ward’s practice development nurse and now makes service improvements for patients and families.
Earlier this year, a new family room was opened on the ward giving patients who are nearing the end of their lives and their loved ones a space to quietly reflect and spend valuable time together. The purpose-built end-of-life room offers a calm, private area for patients and their families away from the busy ward environment.
Michelle, from South Bank, designed the room and said she wanted to make it as homely as possible. The 44-year-old said the whole team were involved and they have had great feedback from patients and families.
Following its success, Michelle and her colleagues have now turned their attention to the courtyard area, Michelle said: “The courtyard is completely empty, unused and we don’t have access to it. I thought if we can take the window out and make a door and make a little enclosed memory garden for the room it would be so amazing and make such a difference to people.
“We continue to improve the room for families and patients. Being in this situation I know how hard it is to come to terms with things but if you’re surrounded by people who genuinely care it really can make a difference. Fundraising is a ward 3 family project and all are involved and making difference. Amanda our manager inspires and motivates me everyday to keep working hard.”
Michelle has led on the fundraising to transform the courtyard and said she and the team have managed to raise more than £5,000. The nurse said the garden may take up to £50,000 to complete but said the work will be completed in stages.
She is now organising a walk named the ‘Step by Step challenge’ to take place on August 13 – the date she was given her terminal prognosis. She said: “It’s a difficult day for us as a family but I want to make it something positive. I hope we can carry it on for years to come and we can support the ward and carry the legacy on.”
The walk will take place from Saltburn to Whitby but Michelle said it’s completely up to people how far they want to walk and said she wants to make it as inclusive as possible.
Michelle is mum to five, Ash-leigh, 22, Chloe, 21, Dylan, 19, Thomas, 15 and Jessica, 14 and is about to celebrate her 19th wedding anniversary with her husband Robert, who she described as her “hero”.
Ash-leigh is currently in her third year of nursing studies at Northumbria University and Chloe volunteers at the hospital and is interested in becoming a paramedic. Michelle said: “I’m so proud of them all, they’re all interested in careers which help people and try to make a difference.”
Michelle thanked her colleagues and everyone who has donated and fundraised for the cause including nine Teessiders who are due to climb the UK’s three peaks in 24 hours to raise funds to help Michelle.
Alongside this, Michelle’s colleague and friend Millie Smith is taking the lead in organising a charity night at the Dorman’s Club on September 1. Michelle said Millie has been vital in fundraising efforts.
The team completing the three peaks challenge have a goal of raising £5,000. You can read their story and donate here.
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