‘It’s so fulfilling to help someone be at peace in the last days of their life'
Irish Cancer Society night nurse Pat Tyrrell talks about the privilege of giving cancer patients end of life care.
The Irish Cancer Society’s night nursing team provide end-of-life palliative care for cancer patients who wish to spend their final days at home. Nurse Pat Tyrrell, from Wexford, says it’s “one of the very best jobs that I have had.”
“The most fulfilling aspect of this role for me is being able to help someone in the last days of their life to be at peace, both physically and emotionally,” she says. “Part of this is being able to support the families and/or friends to care for their loved one at this time.
“The role requires a coming together of much knowledge and many skills acquired over the years to provide high quality and compassionate clinical care, emotional and practical support. It brings out the best in those of us who are lucky enough to work in this service and that in turn provides us with a sense of great satisfaction and fulfilment.”
Daffodil Day 2021, kindly supported by Boots, takes place on Friday 26 March.
To get involved, visit cancer.ie where you can make a donation, visit our Daffodil Day shop, or to host a virtual Daffodil Day event.
For support or advice, contact the Irish Cancer Society’s Support Line on Freephone 1800200700 or email a specialist cancer nurse today.
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