Shelley Lawes

Patient Advocate @Melissa Gillis Care

Kent, GB

Support can range from guidance of the NHS referral system, treatment options, surgical intervention options, advice on reputable publications, charities and support groups. I offer information and links to resources both online and in the community, plus emotional support for patients both pre & post-op. I pride myself on empowering patients with knowledge. I believe we only fear what we do not know. I have supported many ostomates from pre to post-op and have seen these patients grow in confidence and face their futures with a positive outlook. I visit post-op patients when required, offering my personal knowledge and guiding patients through the system i.e. how to contact SCNs, product suppliers/DACs, seek dietetic support (if required), change consultants and so-on.I am open to public speaking, whether that be my view on patient advocacy, ostomate care, IBD patient care or sharing my own personal journey. I have previously spoken for Coloplast UK, Purple Wings Charity, Clinisupplies, the Sick Exhibition and local support groups.I featured in a Valentine\'s confidence campaign for Vanilla Blush (video via my blog) and Coloplast and also modelled the latest range for Vanilla Blush in Nov 2016. This was an empowering experience as a patient and advocate.I freelance blog when able to and have had the honour of being published by The Mighty, Clinimed/Securicare, The Ostomistic Life, Coloplast, CCUK, Colostomy UK and more. I\'ve been a 3 x WEGO health nominee in 2016, 2017 and 2018.