Children’s nurse has ‘heart of gold’

A NURSE who supports children with serious and life-limiting conditions and their families has been named January’s Health Hero.

Kath Macsorley, a paediatric palliative care nurse specialist, was praised for her approach to often very sensitive and upsetting situations.

The mum of two from Cardiff works with very poorly children who are sometimes nearing the end of their lives. It’s her job to help the heartbroken families through these difficult times, offering emotional and practical advice.

“It can be an emotionally draining job but it’s also lovely as you can help families make the most of the time they have left with their children,” she said.

“I make sure the children are comfortable and that the families have all the support they need. In some cases children can deteriorate quite quickly but in others I can support them all the way into adult services. It’s a privilege to be involved in their care.”

Kath’s time is split between working in the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales and in the community.

She also liaises closely with charities such as Ty Hafan and Bobath which care for children with a variety of conditions.

“I couldn’t do my job without all the other professionals around me,” she added.

“There’s a team of similar nurses to me across Wales and we bounce off each other. I also work quite closely with consultants in palliative care.”

The 52-year-old said being a strong communicator was vital to succeeding in the role. But she admitted she was completely shocked at being given the Health Hero accolade.

“I couldn’t believe it. I’m just doing my job,” she added.

She was nominated by Katie Smith, a fellow member of the children’s community nursing team (CCNS) at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.

Katie said: “She is outstanding at her job, like many nurses I know.

“But Kath often works on late, goes over and above for the wonderful families she supports.

“The main reason I nominated Kath is for her kindness. She has recently taken on yet another role of supporting the staff on CCNS helping us cope with children we nurse passing away.

“A child I cared for a while ago very sadly died aged just five years old.

“Kath again went over and above to support me even though her workload is huge.

“We formed a strong bond and she still checks in with me now to see I am okay.

“She has a heart of gold. She’s very kind, has a caring gentle nature, and truly deserves recognition.”

By becoming a Health Hero, Kath will now receive a free treatment at the award-winning Park Plaza Hotel in Greyfriars Road, Cardiff.

If you know an unsung hero who works or volunteers for Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, you can nominate them for our Health Hero award by emailing mark. smith@mediawales.co.uk