Rónán Kelly, Youth Support Coordinator
“Observing how young people face their illness with such courage and determination is a real inspiration to me.”
My role
I support young people during their cancer treatment and reduce social isolation during their time in hospital. I work in Royal Hospital for Sick Children Glasgow (Yorkhill). The Teenage Cancer unit is supported by a multi-disciplinary team made up of consultants, specially trained nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists, dieticians, Clic Sargent social workers, family support and a Youth Support Coordinator.
My favourite part of the job is getting young people socialising together and supporting each other in the unit. Observing how young people face their illness with such courage and determination is a real inspiration to me.
Why Teenage Cancer Trust matters
During my time in this role I have witnessed the incredible difference the Teenage Cancer Trust unit has made to the young people undergoing treatment. Having their own social space to hang out in and socialise with other people their own age really helps maintain some level of normality during their hospital stay.
The friendships and relationships that the young people build can really have a positive impact on their treatment as they know there is a support structure there should they ever need it.