Canberra McGrath Breast Care Nurse Kerryn Ernst has received the prestigious Churchill Fellowship Medal after completing the program requirements of the award. The Churchill Fellowship recognises new and exciting ideas and focuses on addressing issues that affect Australians.

Kerryn was presented with the medal either this month at Government House in Canberra. The ceremony was presided over by Their Excellencies General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (retd), Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia and Mrs Hurley.

As part of the program, Kerryn travelled to the US to observe best practice cancer treatment in facilities across the country. Kerryn travelled as widely as Toronto, Canada, Houston, Texas and West Hollywood in California. She also attended the Oncology Nurses Society Conference in Philadelphia.

“Cancer is impacting people in ever increasing numbers, and every individual deserves personalised care,” Kerryn said.

“Being able to see that, and understand how, broadly, approaches to cancer treatments are advancing was fascinating, and something I look forward to sharing with the Australian community.”

Jane Mahony, Nursing Program Director at the McGrath Foundation, said Kerryn’s achievement was testament to the service she provides to people with breast cancer and their families in Canberra and would have a national impact.

“We’re so proud of Kerryn,” said Jane. “To be able to travel the world in search of ways to improve the profession is an honour not only for Kerryn, but also the Foundation and all her patients.”

Kerryn has a McGrath Breast Care Nurse since 2009 and a registered nurse since 1999. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Haematology, a Masters in Palliative Care and a Masters in Nursing.