A NURSE from Pontypool’s County Hospital will be Wales’ only nominee for an award at a Royal College of Nursing ceremony.

Sian Bodman works in the field of diabetes and is one of five people shortlisted for the Patient Choice Award, with nominations put forward by the service users.

The senior diabetes nurse is from Blackwood, but has worked at the Torfaen hospital for the past 12 years, since moving into the area of nursing in 1995.

“Patients welfare is at the centre of everything I do each day,” said Ms Bodman, who covers GP surgeries and clinics across the area.

“Diabetes is a confusing world, and can be daunting for people with daily decisions around food, activities, travel and illness management.

“The Patients Choice Award is the most prestigious for us as nurses, as it comes from the very people we are in our roles to help.

“I’m honoured to have been nominated.”

In her role as a senior diabetes specialist nurse with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, she supports patients as they adjust to the diagnosis and learn to manage the condition.

“You don’t realise the impact you have,” she said.

“I was just doing my job, doing what nurses do - the best I can for the people I care for.”

Ms Bodman was nominated by Lynne Lewis, who championed the nurse “on behalf of so many other people” that had been helped by her.

She said: “People talk about Sian, especially in small valley communities.

“Sian makes people feel safe and once you have met her, she knows you and your nearest and dearest.

“She understands and supports patients in adjusting their lives to deal with and manage diabetes.”

Ms Lewis said Ms Bodman finds ways for patients and their families to access information about diabetes and works to structure sustainable, quality care.

“She inspires colleagues and patients alike,” she said, “We want her to be recognised for her holistic approach where she encompasses all health issues into her care.”

At the nursing awards, there are 14 categories – 13 of which are based on nominations in a professional setting.

Voting closes on Friday, April 28 and the winner will be announced at the ceremony at the Westminster Park Plaza Hotel in London on Friday, May 5.

To vote, visit secure.rcni.com/nurse-awards/patients-choice-voting.asp.