A clinical nurse specialist has been presented with a national award for her commitment and excellent care.

Rebekah Del Gaizo, a colorectal clinical nurse specialist (CNS) at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, was taken by surprise this week when she was presented with an Edith Cavell award by a patient who wanted to thank her for her commitment and approach to nursing after his recent surgery here at the hospital. Mr Donald Steel said he felt that Rebekah was deserving of the award because she had restored his faith in the essence of nursing, after training himself many years ago.

Mr Steel had arranged the presentation with the support of his consultant Miss Sarah Addison and Rebekah’s manager, Maddie White, Colorectal Nurse Team Leader. Maddie said: "We feel so proud of Rebekah and what she contributes to patient care and agree that she is so deserving of this recognition."

An inspiring new national awards programme, Cavell Star Awards are given to nurses, midwives, nursing associates and healthcare assistants who shine bright and show exceptional care to colleagues, patients and their families.

On her win, Rebekah said: "I was shocked and honoured to be receiving this award.

"It is fantastic to know that what we do means so much."