Nursing student becomes Ambassador for Cancer Research

Posted on 27 June 2019

First year undergraduate nursing student Rebecca Reffold has become an Ambassador for Cancer Research.

Rebecca says: “For a long time I have wanted to volunteer in an area where I believe I could make a great contribution to, both on a professional and personal level. After studying the module 'Professional Identity' which I thoroughly enjoyed, I did some further research which sparked my interest to learn more about the politics surrounding nursing and become an advocate for patients, the nursing workforce and the public. This has led me to take on the role of an Ambassador for Cancer Research UK.”

“I believe this role is going to enhance my knowledge greatly and give me many opportunities in the future to have a voice and work with the local media and local politicians within my constituency, Selby and Ainsty. I have already secured a meeting with my local MP at this extremely difficult time politically to discuss the Shoulder to Shoulder campaign which addresses the key issue of employment within the healthcare industry, an opportunity I am very much looking forward to.”

Paul Galdas, Professor of Nursing and Deputy Head of Department (Nursing & Midwifery) said: “I am delighted that Rebecca has decided to become an Ambassador for Cancer Research UK. It's an excellent example of the leadership potential we aim to foster in all York nursing students. Rebecca will be using her enthusiasm and commitment to bring Cancer Research UK campaigns to life, influencing politicians to make cancer a priority. We are all really looking forward to supporting Rebecca in this exciting role.”