Nurse’s extra care rewarded

A breast care nurse was acknowledged for her ongoing commitment to people battling breast cancer in the Peel region at a midwifery awards night last month.

Peel Health Campus nurse Donna Cook was presented the 2016 WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence in Primary, Public and Community Care award on May 7.

The Bunbury resident, who worked at Bunbury Regional Hospital for seven years as a McGrath Foundation nurse, helped establish Peel’s breast care service in 2014.

Ms Cook travels to the Peel centre twice a week to support women and men who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Ms Cook said she did not expect to win the award, but she was overwhelmed her efforts in the community had been recognised on a State level.

“It was a great night. I felt very appreciated to be acknowledged for all of the work I have done,” she said.

“It is very surreal. I have dedicated the last 12 years of my working career to supporting women with breast cancer.

“It has been very challenging but it has been very rewarding as well. I never expected it, you don’t go to work looking for that, but to be awarded it is the pinnacle of my career.”

Fellow Peel Health Campus nurse Jemma Freegard was presented this year’s excellence in emerging leadership title at the awards.