Meet the team | Right Decisions

Back to:
NHS Lothian

Now that your treatment has finished, our team is still here for you. You won’t need appointments as often as before, but you can contact us whenever you have concerns or need support. We will see you in clinic at scheduled follow-up visits, and you are always welcome to reach out between appointments if anything changes or you have questions.

Bernadine and Rachel, as the Clinical Nurse Specialists, can help with questions or concerns about your diagnosis, past treatment or follow-up care. Helen is available to support and signpost in regard to general wellbeing and moving forward after treatment.

For information about appointment times please deal directly with the department in question. You can reach the secretary for Oncology/Haematology on 0131 312 0462.

Bernadine Wilkie

bernadine photo

National Clinical Nurse Specialist Cancer Aftercare Service

Works: Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays

With over 30 years of experience as a paediatric and adult nurse, and 25 years dedicated to cancer services, I specialise in supporting children, young people, and young adults through their cancer recovery journey. I bring a compassionate, holistic approach to care, backed by a counselling qualification and deep expertise in long-term aftercare. My goal is to empower patients and their families with the support, information, and reassurance they need during and beyond treatment.

Rachel McAndrew

Rachel photo

Neuro Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist

Works: Monday - Thursday

My role as Neuro-oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist is a patient facing post, working directly with patients and families following the diagnosis of a brain or CNS tumour. The role offers support, education and signposting from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond into aftercare.

I have worked in the field of paediatric oncology nursing for 24 years which has included a variety of nursing roles including ward and research Nursing. This was the first Neuro-onc specific CNS role in Scotland and it has been a privilege to work so closely alongside this patient group.

Helen Veitch

Helen image

Cancer Aftercare Wellbeing Practitioner

Works: Tuesday - Friday

I have worked in oncology/haematology field for over 25years. Over this time my roles including Health Play Specialist (0–18 years), Youth Support Coordinator (13–25 years), and Head of Youth Support Coordinators at Teenage Cancer Trust.

I am now an Aftercare Wellbeing Practitioner. I work with patients aged 0–25 years from six months post-treatment through to transition or discharge. My role is non-clinical and I use a holistic approach focusing on empowering each young person to reach their full potential by setting realistic, achievable goals tailored to individual needs.

My methods of engagement include themed group sessions (e.g. body image), residential events, and peer support groups; creating safe, supportive spaces for young people to rebuild confidence, connect with others, and thrive.