Local chemotherapy nurse to be recognised as ‘local hero’ at Scottish Parliament opening

Chemotherapy nurse George Macleod has been nominated and selected as a “local hero” for the Na h-Eileanan na Iar constituency, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the community.

George Macleod was nominated as a special guest by MSP for Na h-Eileanan na Iar, Donald MacKinnon, in recognition of his dedication and service. Mr MacKinnon said: “Cancer is a devastating diagnosis for anyone who receives it, and walking in for treatment can be an intimidating experience. Every islander whose life has been touched by cancer has come to understand the importance of George and the chemotherapy team’s kindness, patience and professional care.

“While we rightly celebrate the big instances of heroism in our community, it is just as vital that those who provide everyday acts of compassion and support are also recognised. It cannot be underestimated how important such a role is for those in the islands who are facing some of the most difficult experiences of their life. I am pleased to ensure that George receives a small recognition of how important his work is to our community.”

Their Majesties The King and Queen will join MSPs at the official opening of the Scottish Parliament’s Seventh Session on Saturday 27 June. The ceremony will include an address by His Majesty, formally opening the new parliamentary session. Following the ceremony, Their Majesties will attend a reception with individuals chosen as “local heroes” from constituencies and regions across Scotland.

Coleen Macleod, Senior Charge Nurse at the Ambulatory Care Unit, praised George’s long-standing commitment. She said: “We are very proud of George and his commitment to his patients and to his nursing career. He was one of the original nurses to start giving Chemotherapy to Western Isles patients and has been doing so since 2002.”

George began working for NHS Western Isles in 1990 as an Auxiliary Nurse in Lewis Hospital before starting his nursing training the following year. While working in the Surgical Ward at Western Isles Hospital, he completed Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT) training in 2000.

He went on to become one of the first nurses to deliver chemotherapy locally in 2002 and has worked as a full-time SACT nurse ever since.

George is part of a dedicated chemotherapy team that includes Sophie Macleod, Jacqueline Macdonald, Fiona Campbell and Sandra Mackenzie, and is line managed by Coleen Macleod. He is keen to highlight the role of the wider team in delivering care across the islands.

He said: “I am very fortunate to be part of such a dedicated, selfless and clinically competent team. Every one of them is a hero to me. My initial reaction was a bit of embarrassment and thinking ‘why me?’ but I quickly realised though that I must only have been nominated to represent the chemo team as a whole – and their exceptional work deserves to be recognised.”