A Lead Cancer Support Navigator, and a Vasculitis Research Nurse are our You Made a Difference award winners for February 2025.
Mitch Wooding, Lead Cancer Support Navigator
Mitch has been recognised for his outstanding dedication to patients and his colleagues within the Cancer Support Team at CUH, he joined the Cancer Support Team in October 2022, where he is the Lead Cancer Support Navigator.
The Cancer Support Navigators provide a vital point of contact for individuals affected by cancer, offering assistance with financial concerns, caring responsibilities, and emotional and practical challenges. Mitch’s role goes even further—he not only supports patients and their families but also mentors other navigators, helping to integrate holistic support into treatment pathways and strengthen relationships with clinical teams.
Lynn Bennett, Cancer Support Specialist, describes Mitch as:
Kind, considerate, reliable, and dependable. He motivates the team and leads by example. We are very fortunate to have him in the Cancer Support Team.
Mitch was nominated by a colleague who shared how he consistently goes above and beyond for patients:
"Mitch is an essential part of our team. While his role is not clinical, the support he provides is invaluable in delivering truly holistic care. Many of our patients face devastating diagnoses, and Mitch is able to build therapeutic relationships that help them navigate not just their medical needs, but also the emotional and practical challenges they encounter."
Mitch is able to build therapeutic relationships that help them navigate not just their medical needs, but also the emotional and practical challenges they encounter.
“One example of Mitch’s dedication was when he supported the son of a patient newly diagnosed with brain metastases. The patient was no longer able to drive, and Mitch took the time to assist his son in booking his driving test—a small yet meaningful act that helped ease the burden on the family.”
Mitch’s empathy, leadership, and unwavering commitment to patient care have made a profound impact on both patients and colleagues. The Skin Cancer Service and the wider CUH community are all the better for having him on the team.
Congratulations, Mitch!
Viola, Vasculitis Research Nurse
Viola’s dedication and compassion have made a lasting impact on patients and colleagues alike in her role as a Vasculitis Research Nurse. Since joining the team in June 2020, Viola has played a vital role in several commercial trials, particularly in EGPA vasculitis. Her meticulous approach to identifying potential participants, engaging with them about clinical trials, and ensuring strict adherence to protocols has been instrumental in advancing research and patient care.
Her patients describe Viola as approachable, supportive, and an invaluable source of reassurance during what can be a daunting journey. One patient expressed their gratitude by saying,
I cannot imagine navigating my rare and complex syndrome without her help and support. I will remain deeply grateful to Viola for the rest of my life.
Viola’s contributions extend far beyond her research duties. She is a mentor to newer staff, a role model for her colleagues, and a constant source of support for her team. She is known for stepping up when challenges arise and for fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. Her dedication embodies the Trust’s values, making her an inspiration to all.
Congratulations, Viola, on this well-deserved recognition!