'Outstanding' teen cancer supporter honoured

Charlene Kent, pictured with former patient Freddie Cole, said the role was a privilege

A healthcare worker described by her patients as a "lifeline" and a "hero" has been honoured for her work supporting teenagers and young adults with cancer.

Charlene Kent, youth support co-ordinator at Castle Hill Hospital in Cottingham, won the "outstanding care" category at the Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance Excellence in Cancer Awards.

Ms Kent, who has been in the role for eight years, said the job was "complex" and "emotionally challenging" but said it was "the most rewarding thing in the world to support a young person through their cancer journey".

She added: "It's a privilege for me to work with so many brave young people and to know that my work is appreciated."

Bucket list activities

Patients described Ms Kent as "the backbone of the service" and according to one mum, "my hero, who kept me positive through my darkest time".

Her role includes co-ordinating appointments for patients to make sure they are supported with issues like hair loss or anxiety but also involves organising social events so they can meet others like them.

She has also organised hospital-based graduation ceremonies for students too ill to attend their university ceremonies and has even helped patients fulfil bucket list activities as diverse as skydiving and milking a cow.

Ms Kent said: "A cancer diagnosis can be devastating at any age but for teenagers and young people who are just getting started in life, it can feel particularly cruel.

"My job is to support them and help them understand what's happening but also to remember that there's a young person inside as well as a patient."

Ms Kent was given the award at a ceremony on 19 September.

Listen to highlights from Hull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.

Download the BBC News app from the App Store for iPhone and iPad or Google Play for Android devices