Because nobody should face cancer alone: meet Rhian, our Cancer Support Nurse

For more than four decades, Rhian has dedicated her nursing career to supporting people through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

From caring for patients in hospital wards, to supporting people at the end of life, to now leading Tenovus Cancer Care’s Nurse-led Support Line, Rhian has always been driven by one thing: making sure people affected by cancer feel supported, heard and never alone.

A career built around caring for people

Rhian’s nursing journey began at just 17, working in an orthopaedic hospital in Cardiff before training as a registered nurse at Morriston Hospital in Swansea.

After qualifying, she became a ward sister on an elderly care ward, gaining valuable experience in acute medicine and developing the skills that would shape her career.

She later moved into specialist palliative care, working in the community with the West Glamorgan service run by Ty Olwen hospice before returning to support hospital wards.

While working full time and raising a young family, Rhian continued her professional development, achieving both her Diploma and MSc in Nursing.

Leading cancer care across Wales

Rhian’s passion and experience led her to become Lead Cancer Nurse at the Southwest Wales Cancer Centre at Singleton Hospital, where she managed oncology, haematology and radiotherapy teams, as well as specialist cancer nurses.

She spent 14 years in the role, helping to shape and improve cancer services and supporting teams who cared for thousands of people across Wales.

After taking early retirement, Rhian continued her commitment to cancer care by working with Macmillan on their Mobile Support Unit, bringing specialist support closer to communities across Wales.

Supporting people when they need it most

In 2021, Rhian joined Tenovus Cancer Care’s Nurse-led Support Line, becoming Lead Nurse in 2022.

When she joined, the service received referrals from three hospitals in Wales. Today, the team supports people across Wales, receiving referrals from more than 13 hospital units and providing specialist support through a pan-Wales service.

The Support Line team provides a vital service, offering people affected by cancer a chance to speak to experienced nurses who understand the challenges they may be facing.

Continuing to make a difference

Today, Rhian’s role focuses on supporting the wider nursing team, working with health boards across Wales and ensuring that the Tenovus Cancer Care Support Line continues to provide compassionate care 365 days a year.

Although she is now in a leadership role, Rhian still enjoys the opportunity to answer calls when the team is busy.

Thanks to the generosity of Tenovus Cancer Care supporters, nurses like Rhian can continue to be there for people affected by cancer across Wales.

Because nobody should have to face cancer alone.

Our nurses are here 365 days a year for anyone affected by cancer, providing expert advice, emotional support and a listening ear when people need it most.

By setting up a monthly gift of £5, you can help us keep this vital support going for people and families across Wales. As a thank you, we’ll send you a Tenovus Cancer Care nurse pin badge to show your support.