About Rachel Mugnai, Specialist Cancer Nurse
“I founded Side by Side to be the person I knew every family needed on their team: a clinical expert who actually has the time to listen.”
I am a warm, compassionate, and professional NMC registered Specialist Cancer Nurse with over 25 years of experience in cancer care. My mission is to help you find a route through the fog of clinical terms and endless appointments, ensuring you feel heard and supported as you navigate treatment, manage side effects, and begin the work of rebuilding your life.
My Journey
My path as a Specialist Nurse began as a student on an oncology ward in Leeds. I quickly recognised it as a space where I could make a genuine difference for people facing some of the toughest experiences of their lives.
That initial spark led to a broad clinical career. I have worked across acute oncology wards in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, supported medical advancement as an Oncology Research Nurse in clinical trials, and served as a Gynae-Oncology Specialist Nurse. Most recently, I have led at a strategic level as a Head of Services within an ovarian cancer charity.
Why I Work Differently
Through every role, one truth remained clear: the clinical system is often too stretched to see the whole person. I bring my years of specialist cancer nursing experience directly to you. Whether we are decoding a pathology report or talking about how a diagnosis affects your work and family, I help ensure your voice — not just your diagnosis — remains the priority.
The Specialist Toolkit
My experience in cancer nursing is built on a broad range of clinical, communication, and holistic skills designed to support you through every stage of a diagnosis.
Clinical Experience
Having administered chemotherapy and worked in clinical trials, I understand the science of cancer treatment and the reality of its side effects. I can help translate clinical language into clear, practical next steps.
Expert Communication
With Advanced Communication Skills training, I can help you navigate difficult conversations — whether that's with your consultant, your employer, or your family.
Holistic Wellbeing
I am trained in basic CBT techniques to support anxiety management, and I have specialist experience in menopause and intimacy — the often unspoken effects of cancer treatment that can be overlooked.
Strategic Oversight
My background in service design and experience as a Head of Services means I understand how healthcare and support systems work, and how to help you find your way through them.
Qualifications & Registration
Registration
- NMC Registered Specialist Cancer Nurse
- Fully insured private practice
- Practises in accordance with the NMC Code
Specialist Training
- Advanced Communication Skills (Level 3)
- Basic CBT techniques for anxiety management
- Oncology clinical trials & research nursing
- Gynaecological oncology specialist nursing
- Cancer-related menopause & intimacy
- Service design & strategic healthcare leadership
Clinical Experience
- 25+ years in oncology nursing across the UK, Australia, and New Zealand
- Acute oncology ward nursing
- Oncology Research Nurse — clinical trials
- Gynae-Oncology Specialist Nurse
- Head of Services, ovarian cancer charity
My Philosophy
Based in Gateshead, Side by Side was born out of a commitment to bring high-level, person-centred expertise to the communities I know best, and to extend that support to anyone in the UK navigating the complexities of a cancer diagnosis.
I know that even the most exceptional clinical teams are often limited by the pressures of a busy healthcare system. While your consultants and nurses focus on delivering your vital treatment, I provide the time, space, and support that the clinical setting often cannot.
I believe every family deserves access to an experienced professional they can turn to when the fog sets in. I walk the path alongside you — as a steady, supportive presence for you and your loved ones.
By combining deep clinical experience with the unhurried space of private practice, I support you not just as a patient, but as a whole person. I hold the details, answer the in-between questions, and help your family feel heard, prepared, and supported.
All of my work is conducted in accordance with the NMC Code of professional conduct.
With warmth and compassion,
Rachel Mugnai
Specialist Cancer Nurse & Founder of Side by Side Cancer Support
NMC Registered Specialist Cancer Nurse
Would you like specialist support by your side?
Let’s start with a calm, no-pressure conversation about what you need.
See how I can help