Clair Millard has sadly passed away
September 23, 2020
Tributes have been paid to colleague Clair Millard, who has passed away suddenly at the age of 36.
The specialist bowel screening practitioner was the heart and soul of the service, dedicating herself to her role which she had carried out for eight years.
During Clair’s time at the Trust, she became known for her bubbly personality and determination, to not only deliver the best care possible for her patients, but also to educate those around her about the importance of bowel screening.
Before her death earlier this month, Clair had also been shortlisted as a Star Awards finalist for the Excellence in Education Prize.
Claire Beats, Lead Bowel Cancer Screening Practitioner, spoke fondly of her colleague: “Clair was kind, compassionate and would do anything for anyone. She really loved being a nurse and working within our team.
“When Clair was here, her personality and laughter filled the room, she was a true joy to be around. She was so passionate about her job and educating those around her.
“She was very thoughtful and dedicated to being a nurse.
“She always went above and beyond for her patients and never grumbled – she would do anything for them.
“Clair was completely dedicated to the health promotion of bowel cancer screening and she decided to take on a special project which led to the service receiving a grant. The money went towards a giant inflatable bowel which she had sourced and was really keen on using to promote awareness. We used it to educate the community around screening.
“It certainly gained the attention of people when we did take it out and about on awareness days.
“As well as using this, she also took herself into the community, meeting with leaders from mosques and other places so that she was able to educate them about bowel screening. She also taught at the University of Wolverhampton and she loved doing this.
“Clinically she saw patients for pre-assessments, and treatments. She had this amazing energy and she just didn’t stop.
“I put it down to the fact she used to be a Haven Holidays Yellow Coat before she became a nurse.
“Clair had such a playful character and out of the office she was always lots of fun. On our team nights out she would always bring a bag of goodies – or ‘funsies’ as she liked to call them. Whether that was glow sticks for everyone, or fancy dress masks, she always had something up her sleeve.
“Clair will not only be missed immensely by the team, but also by the Trust. We will continue the good work she has done promoting awareness, but no one will ever be able to replace Clair.”
Clair’s funeral will be held on Thursday, 1 October. The family would like as many people as possible to line the front of Sandwell Hospital, on Hallam Street, at 11am as the funeral cortege passes by. A room has been arranged in the education centre where the funeral will be screened, but there is limited capacity due to social distancing. If you would like to attend please email claire.beats@nhs.net by Monday 28 September.
If you would like to leave a tribute or donation in Clair’s memory please visit https://clairmillard.muchloved.com/.