A PRIDE of Jersey Award winner has said that the creation of a new association will focus on the introduction of a neuro clinical nurse specialist in Jersey.
Sophie Reid, who was diagnosed with an astrocytoma in December 2024, announced plans to establish The Sophie Reid Neurological Association following her success at this year’s Pride of Jersey Awards – where she won the Ambassador of the Year and the Gary Burgess Awards.
After using cancer and neurological services on the Island, she identified gaps in care which she hopes the proposed charity will help to address, particularly through the introduction of a specialist nursing role.
Mrs Reid said she is in the process of moving her proposed charity from concept to reality and that she hopes to formally launch as a charitable organisation early next year.
“We’ve defined our mission and values, and we’re collaborating with healthcare professionals, local charities, and government contacts to make sure we’re not duplicating existing services but instead filling important gaps in care,” she said.
A key priority for the organisation will be fundraising to establish a neuro clinical nurse specialist post, which Mrs Reid explains would act as a central point of contact for patients navigating complex neurological diagnoses and treatment pathways.
She said: “A Neuro CNS plays a vital role in supporting patients with neurological conditions, offering emotional and practical support throughout their journey.”
The proposed role is intended to improve continuity of care, reduce anxiety for patients and families, and ensure individuals do not feel unsupported during their treatment.
Despite the association carrying her name, Mrs Reid stressed that its purpose is to support others, saying: “This isn’t about me.
“It’s about using my platform to help others who are facing the same struggles.”
She continued: “Neurological illnesses can be isolating and frightening, and I want to create something that’s approachable and rooted in real-life experiences.”
The organisation will aim to support Islanders affected by a range of neurological conditions, with support offered based on need rather than diagnosis.
“Neurological illnesses can affect people in similar ways, regardless of the condition,” Mrs Reid said. “We want to ensure that everyone who needs support has access to it.”
Mrs Reid also shared that since her announcement, she has had positive discussions with local officials about the charity’s aims.
“There’s a shared understanding that improving neurological care in Jersey requires collaboration, and the [proposed] charity’s partnership approach has been welcomed,” she said. “It’s not something I wanted to rush. It’s important that we get this right from the start to ensure the charity is patient-led and focused on meeting real needs.”
Looking ahead to the proposed charity’s planned launch in 2026, Mrs Reid said her goal is to ensure Islanders facing neurological diagnoses feel supported.
“I want people to feel that they are not alone.”
