Scotland lights up blue for World Parkinson's Day
Over 30 Scottish landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, showed their support by lighting up in the colours of Parkinson's UK
The Parkinson's community marked World Parkinson's Day on Sunday 11 April as landmarks across Scotland were illuminated in blue to show their support.
Around 12,400 people in Scotland currently live with the condition and World Parkinson's Day provided an opportunity for the community to connect with each other and millions of people worldwide.
Parkinson's UK Scotland were thrilled to see over 30 iconic buildings show their support throughout the country, raising awareness for the fastest growing neurological condition in the world.
From Dumfries to Shetland, Stornoway to St Andrew's and Ayr to Lossiemouth, people turned out to visit their local landmark in all its blue glory.
Edinburgh Castle joined in for first time, while Greenock's Beacon Arts Centre and Caird Hall in Dundee also illuminated blue.
The event was organised by our fantastic volunteer Karen McConnell, who said:
"It was absolutely fantastic to see so many buildings lighting up blue for World Parkinson’s Day. It’s a really strong visual symbol of support for the Parkinson’s community and helped unite us all to mark the day.
“I hope lighting up Scotland for World Parkinson’s Day will help raise awareness of Parkinson’s and show the Parkinson’s community that we stand shoulder to shoulder with them and will continue to work to raise awareness until a cure is found.“
Annie Macleod, Director of Parkinson's UK Scotland said:
“We were delighted to see so many iconic buildings light up for World Parkinson’s Day and are extremely grateful for their support.
“It has been an extremely difficult year for the Parkinson’s community. We know that many people with Parkinson's have experienced deteriorating symptoms over the last year. They have not been able to access the things that help keep them well - from care and treatment, to seeing family and friends and getting out of the house for exercise or other activities. Many families have faced bereavement with little support in these strange times.
“We hope this was a beacon of hope for all who live with the condition.”