Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group (LCHG) held their annual Staff Awards last month, and the children’s diabetes nurses fared well at the event, recognising how vital they are to the care of children across the county.
Becky Taylor, a Paediatric Diabetes Nurse Specialist based at Lincoln County Hospital, was the overall winner of the Great Patient Experience and Involvement Award- Acute.
She was nominated by the mum of one of her patients, Lily Harris from Branston, Lincolnshire.
Lily, who was 12 at the time, was unexpectedly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes after a viral infection. She was suffering with headaches and sleeping and had lost weight. After a blood glucose and urine test, her GP sent her straight to hospital to be stabilised.
Mum Katie Harris said: “We have no family history of diabetes, so this diagnosis came as a huge shock to us all, but especially poor Lily.
“Lily’s nurse Becky became a lifeline for us. She has provided unwavering support — from home and school visits to being available on the phone whenever needed. She not only ensured that Lily’s care is safe and effective but also gave her the confidence to manage life as a young teenager with diabetes.”
Lily is now thriving and mainly manages her condition herself with a blood glucose monitor and an insulin pump. She has also had to think more about what she eats – so she can calculate the carb ratio beforehand.
Katie added: “The whole Diabetes team have been brilliant, we had so much to learn, take in and understand. The staff, especially Becky have empowered Lily to live her life whilst managing her diabetes.”
Becky said: “I was honoured to receive my award and felt privileged that my care and support was truly appreciated by a patient and her family.
“I always strive to ensure that diabetes patients have the information, confidence and knowledge they need to manage their condition, so they can enjoy life with Diabetes.”
In addition, the Children’s Diabetes team, were shortlisted for Clinical Team of the Year at the Staff Awards. Their nomination recognised that despite challenges, the team had shown tireless dedication to supporting children and families requiring support with diabetes care. They had delivered home visits, school education and pioneering technology, while also organising peer-support events for young patients.
Friday 14 November is World Diabetes Day, the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the daily challenges people with diabetes face in managing their condition.
For information on Diabetes, including symptoms please visit the NHS website