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Denise Hardy - A Remarkable Career in Lymphology

From October 1st 2024, “Kendal Lymphology Centre” will be rebranded as “Bay Lymphology,” ensuring the continuation of vital lymphoedema services in the Morecambe Bay area. PhysioPod looks back at Denise's remarkable career and achievements and wishes her the very best for her forthcoming retirement.

Denise Hardy RGN, BSc (Hons) Palliative Care
Lymphoedema Nurse Consultant – Kendal Lymphology Centre, Kendal, Cumbria

Denise's nursing career has been marked by a deep commitment to lymphology over the past 30 years, following her background in palliative care. As the founder of Kendal Lymphology Centre (KLC), she established an independent clinic dedicated to providing NHS care in the northwest of England.

Under her guidance, KLC has become a vital resource, offering prevention, treatment, and training tailored to both patients and healthcare professionals. Since its opening in 2005, KLC has served over 4,000 patients with various lymphatic pathologies, including lipoedema, and extended care to children when needed. Denise has also expanded the reach of care to satellite clinics in Barrow, Ulverston, and Lancaster, and also oversaw a private clinic in Wimbledon, London, in collaboration with Professor Peter Mortimer.

Denise has also made significant contributions to professional organizations in the field of lymphology, serving as a Trustee/Nurse Advisor for the Lymphoedema Support Network (LSN) and as a past Nurse Consultant for LipoedemaUK where her involvement included:

  • Actively participating in their management teams and advocating for LipoedemaUK and the LSN.
  • Developing eLearning modules on Lipoedema and Lymphoedema for GPs and healthcare professionals through the Royal College of General Practitioners.
  • Facilitating Nurse Consultation Clinics at annual conferences and serving as Chief Nurse Advisor to address complex clinical inquiries from members.
  • Co-chairing the development of the Lipoedema Best Practice Guidelines, published last year.
  • Reviewing literature and providing valuable insights on behalf of LipoedemaUK and LSN.

Beyond her direct patient care, Denise has been a pioneering force in education and advocacy within the lymphology community. Her expertise in compression therapy has strengthened patient care, and she has collaborated with manufacturers to enhance garment offerings. Highlights of her career include:

  • Educating healthcare professionals about lymphoedema and lipoedema, with a memorable experience teaching in Kenya about breast cancer-related lymphoedema.
  • Coordinating the Lymphaletics event for families affected by Lymphoedema, creating a supportive and fun atmosphere for both patients and their families.
  • Working with the British Lymphology Society (BLS), where she co-chaired initiatives addressing national tariff standards and equitable funding for lymphoedema services in the UK, establishing KLC as a regional ambassador for the BLS.
  • 2019 Chronic Oedema Nurse of the Year award 
  • Achieved outstanding rating -Care Quality Commission inspection.
      
    Denise is also an accomplished author and researcher, contributing articles for publication and participating in studies examining compression management in lymphoedema.

As she embarks on retirement,  we want to say thank you, Denise, for your dedicated service and immense contributions to lymphology. Your passion and leadership have transformed lives and set a high standard for care that will resonate for years to come.

Julie Soroczyn and I are grateful too, for her support to PhysioPod and her invaluable contributions since meeting her back in 2010, where Kendal Lymphology Centre were one of the clinics to install DEEP OSCILLATION® therapy.

It was because of Denise's intervention in 2016, that 3 year old Lincoln (now aged ten) has been utilising the therapy at home for years in self treatment (new video released 27th September). 

Huge Happy Retirement, Denise Hardy!

While we will undoubtedly miss your presence and guidance, but we are excited for you, as you transition into retirement. A new journey ahead filled with opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and exploring those personal passions that you may have put on hold.

Thank you for the invaluable legacy you leave behind. Your work will continue to inspire us, and we are confident that the team at Bay Lymphology, along with MBPCC, will maintain the high standards you established.

Wishing you all the best in your retirement—may it be filled with joy and laughter too!

 

Morecambe Bay Primary Care Collaborative (MBPCC)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Morecambe Bay Primary Care Collaborative (MBPCC) is a not-for-profit community interest company created by Local GP practices.

Together with key colleagues from the current team of KLC will continue to deliver care, and Denise Hardy will stay involved as a clinical expert, ensuring a seamless transition for patients.

Andrew Giles, CEO of MBPCC, stated: "We are delighted to take on the management of Bay Lymphology and are committed to upholding the high standards of care that Denise has established. We look forward to working with her and the team to ensure the continued provision of exceptional services to the community."

For further information, please contact:

Andrew Giles – CEO MBPCC (andrew.giles4@nhs.net)
Denise Hardy – Nurse Consultant - KLC (denise.hardy9@nhs.net)

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