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Helen Forristal
Director of Nursing Services at Marie Keating Foundation
Professional Background
Helen Forristal is a distinguished nursing professional recognized for her extensive experience and leadership in the field of nursing, particularly within oncology. With a robust educational foundation and a myriad of roles at reputable institutions, Helen has significantly impacted healthcare through her dedication to nursing education and patient care. Currently serving as the Director of Nursing Services at the Marie Keating Foundation, she leads initiatives focused on cancer care and patient support, aimed at improving the lives of those affected by cancer.
Throughout her illustrious career, Helen has held pivotal positions including Clinical Nurse Manager at Beacon Oncology and was a prominent member of the Cancer Patient Forum for the National Cancer Strategy 2016-2025. In these roles, she demonstrated exceptional leadership abilities and strategic insights into cancer care, advocating for patients' needs and driving improvements in clinical services.
Education and Achievements
Helen's educational journey is nothing short of impressive. She started with a Professional Nursing degree from London South Bank University, where she laid the groundwork for her nursing career. She further specialized in urology by studying for the Higher Diploma in Nursing Education at the Institute of Urology London, which equipped her with the skills to educate and mentor future nurses in specialized care areas.
To solidify her expertise, Helen pursued a Master’s Degree in Advanced Nursing Practice at University College Dublin. This advanced education allowed her to develop advanced clinical skills and leadership competencies, laying the foundation for her impactful role in cancer nursing.
Helen's commitment to continuing education and professional development has enabled her to integrate the latest evidence-based practices into her nursing philosophy, making her a trusted leader and advocate in the healthcare community.
Notable Contributions
Helen has made notable contributions to cancer care services throughout her career. Her previous role as Cancer Nurse Director at the South Essex Cancer Network highlights her influential presence in regional cancer management. As Deputy Head of Cancer Nursing at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, Helen managed nursing teams and promoted best practices among staff, ensuring high-quality patient care and support throughout the treatment process.
Furthermore, as a Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist, she played an instrumental role in enhancing patient experience and outcomes for cancer patients at Dartford and Gravesham Hospitals NHS Trust. Helen’s focus on comprehensive care underscored the importance of emotional and psychological support alongside traditional medical treatment, ensuring patients received holistic care tailored to their needs.
Overall, Helen Forristal’s extensive education, diverse nursing experience, and a proven track record within the oncology field exemplify her dedication to nursing excellence and patient advocacy. Her leadership within various organizations and contributions to strategic healthcare initiatives illustrate her commitment to improving cancer care and supporting nursing practice.
Achievements
- Director of Nursing Services at Marie Keating Foundation, advocating for cancer patients and improving patient care standards.
- Leadership role in National Cancer Strategy 2016-2025 through Cancer Patient Forum, contributing to policy and strategic enhancements in cancer care.
- Advanced clinical expertise gained through a Master’s in Advanced Nursing Practice enabling the incorporation of innovative practices in patient care.
