Many residents are aware of the threat facing the Metastatic Cancer Nurse position at the Wrexham Maelor due to underfunding by the Welsh Labour Government, which is responsible for health in Wales and has been for the past 25 years. Upon hearing the news that this post may lose its funding; I launched a campaign calling for the permanent funding of this crucial role.
Last week, officials from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) provided me an update, agreeing the funding for the Metastatic Cancer Nurse in Wrexham will be extended to the end of March 2025. While I appreciate BCUHB’s recognition of the strength of feeling on this issue, this only offers short-term relief. The indispensability of this role warrants permanent funding, sparing it from recurring uncertainties.
As a former nurse myself, I know how vital the support provided by specialist Metastatic Cancer Nurses is to cancer patients and their families at the most difficult of times. The incredible nurse at Wrexham works with patients to coordinate their treatment and aftercare, provides emotional and psychological support for cancer patients and is a direct point of contact for any questions or concerns.
This underscores the ongoing importance of my petition - Wrexham residents cannot afford to lose this essential service. If you have not done so already, please sign and share my petition by clicking on ‘Save Wrexham’s Metastatic Cancer Nurse’ on my website homepage: www.sarahatherton.org.uk. Thank you to all who have already lent their support. Let’s send a strong message that we need a permanent Metastatic Nurse based at the Maelor.