Roald Dahl nurse to help children with epilepsy

Famous children's author Roald Dahl's legacy to help seriously ill children is now benefitting young people with epilepsy in Tameside and Glossop.

The popular storyteller's Marvellous Children’s Charity has secured funding to establish a new Roald Dahl Nurse at Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS FT.

As a result, Claire Palmer is the Trust’s new Roald Dahl Epilepsy Transition Nurse Specialist. She will work with the lead paediatric consultant for epilepsy, Dr Trupti Dhorajiwala, in the Children’s Department to offer support to children across Tameside and Glossop.

Her role will also ensure a smooth transition from child to adult services once patients reach the age of 16.

Speaking about her role, Claire said: “I have been a children’s nurse since 2005 and have worked with many children with epilepsy during that time.

“I am proud to take this role, which allows me to dedicate the time and attention needed to provide bespoke support to those with the condition.

“We know the move from child to adult services can be a difficult time, and so my role will work with patients and our adult services to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible.

“Greater Manchester has particularly high rates of epilepsy for children and young people, so it is fantastic to have the support of Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity in an area where it will make a huge difference.”

Roald Dahl Nurses work in NHS Trusts and Health Boards across the UK, supporting children and young people affected by complex, lifelong conditions.

Michelle Kukielka, Associate Director of Programmes at Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity says: “We rely on fundraising and donations to establish more Roald Dahl Nurses, and we are delighted to have been able to be able to fund Claire’s appointment.”

Karen James OBE, Trust Chief Executive, explains that epilepsy is a neurological condition characterised by seizures which are caused by excessive electrical activity within networks of neurons in the brain.

“It is one of the most common neurological conditions in the world.

“Its impact can vary considerably from person to person depending on which part of the brain is affected.

“Epilepsy can affect anyone of any age, gender, race or ethnicity, but is most commonly diagnosed in childhood and in people over the age of 60.

“Roald Dahl has written some of the most loved children’s stories including James and the Giant Peach, Fantastic Mr Fox and Matilda, but his incredible life was also affected by serious illness, tragedy and loss.

“It was his personal experiences of illness - of his own and his close family - which spurred him to want to help seriously ill children and their families.

“We are so grateful to the charity for the funding which has allowed Claire’s to join our team.”

If you would like to find out more about the charity and the work of Roald Dahl Nurses, you can visit the charity website at www.roalddahlcharity.org