Evelina Lystrand

Evelina was eleven years old when she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. What followed was an intensive period of chemotherapy, surgery and lengthy hospital stays. Although the treatment was successful, recurring infections in her leg continued to cause complications. Eventually, she was faced with a difficult choice: undergo limb fusion surgery or have her leg amputated. 
Evelina chose amputation.

Today, she lives an active life with a prosthetic limb. 
“It has worked out much better than I ever expected,” she says. 
Years of treatment meant that the hospital became a significant part of her childhood. What she remembers most, however, is not the procedures or the wards, but the people she met along the way.

“The way you are treated makes a huge difference.”

Over time, a desire to give something back began to grow. 
Today, Evelina works on a surgical ward, caring for children before and after operations. Her role involves supporting patients with a wide range of conditions and care needs.

What matters most to her is the opportunity to connect with children and their families.

“To see a child who has been frightened or in pain start moving, playing and laughing again – that means everything.”

Her own experiences give her a unique understanding of what many patients and families are going through. Even so, her focus is always on the child in front of her and their individual needs.

At Queen Silvia Children’s Hospital, advanced specialist care goes hand in hand with compassion and human connection.

For Evelina, working as a nurse is about giving something back. It is about being part of a healthcare environment where both expertise and kindness can make a lasting difference.

Because when people feel safe and supported, healing can begin.