Patients Choice Award for Southern Trust nurse Bernie

by Gráinne Connolly

Bernie Trainor, a Stoma/Coloproctology Nurse for the Southern Health and Social Care Trust has received a ‘Patient’s Choice’ Award from the charity ‘Lets Talk Crohn’s and Colitis Association.’

The awards which marked World Inflammatory Bowel Disease day in December were organised to celebrate those who help people through their illness.
 

As a member of the Southern Trust's Stoma/Coloproctology Nursing team, Bernie works across Craigavon and Daisy Hill hospitals, supporting colorectal patients and their families from diagnosis, throughout their treatment and on to recovery. 

She's been telling Q Radio about the work her job entails: 

Bernie was nominated by one of her patients Grace Lynam for her professionalism, care and support. 

Commenting on the support Bernie gave her, Grace said:

"I owe so much of my recovery to Bernie as she was a steady, constant in what was like a storm that wouldn’t pass.

"She guided and helped me and my family every step of the way and even to this day I know that if something isn’t right or I’m worried I can ring Bernie for advice.

"Bernie shows the same dedication and care to all her patients. I know that there would be many people standing with me to say how much she deserves to win this award. It’s an honour to know Bernie and have her look after me at some of the most vulnerable stages of life.”

After being nominated by Grace, Bernie said she was "stunned" and extremely grateful: 

Congratulating Bernie on the award, Esther Gishkori, Director of Acute Services for the Southern Trust said:

“Receiving a diagnosis of bowel disease and learning that you need a stoma is an extremely stressful experience for patients.

"Along with coping with the physical symptoms, patients need to adjust to the impact of the condition on their lifestyle.

"Our stoma nursing  team are there to make sure that each patient gets the right clinical care and practical support to meet their own individual needs.

"We are absolutely delighted that Bernie has received this very much deserved recognition for the high quality care that she offers to her patients with such great compassion.”