A NURSE who went above and beyond to support a terminally ill patient and her family has received a special award at a Bangor hospital.

Michelle Williams was cared for by Critical Care Nurse Leisa Jones while she was a patient on Ysbyty Gwynedd’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) before she suddenly passed away in September 2018.

Leisa was nominated for the Seren Betsi Star Award by Michelle’s family who wished to thank her for the care she provided them and Michelle during their darkest time.

Michelle’s niece, Sioned Jones, said: “Leisa was the perfect nurse for Michelle, she has a good sense of humour and made light of the issues with Michelle, which put her at ease.

“Leisa took the time to speak to each of our family members individually to ensure everyone understood the situation with my auntie, she even went out of her way to find my Taid some batteries for his hearing aid when his ran out.

“When the situation with Michelle changed suddenly, it was obvious to see that Leisa was shocked by this and she kept apologising for not knowing that things would change so suddenly. She was nothing but open and clear with us, while remaining caring, compassionate and friendly, she was even calling my Taid ‘Taid’ within a few hours, which really helped lighten the mood.

“It became clear that Michelle wouldn’t make it through the night and we called our close family members to be with her. Leisa gave us privacy to be with Michelle, while still being nearby if we needed her.”

Sioned’s sister, Ceri Williams added: “The care Michelle and our family received from Leisa was more than we could have ever have asked for or expected.

“She made what was the worst day of our lives so much easier – she was so kind and compassionate and treated us like we’d known each other for years, it was like she was part of the family.

Leisa was presented with the Seren Betsi Star Award by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s Chief Executive, Gary Doherty, during a surprise visit to the ICU.

She said: “I feel so privileged to win this award and it really moves me that the family have gone out of their way to nominate me.

“I’d like to thank the family for taking the time to do this for me, it really is lovely and means so much to me.”

Mr Doherty added: “Leisa is a very special member of staff and it was moving to hear how appreciative the family were for the care she provided to their loved one.

“This was a very difficult and challenging situation but the care that was provided to Michelle Williams and her family was fantastic so this award is very well deserved.”