City bridge will be turned blue on Sunday in support of World Parkinson's Day
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Ness Bridge will be lit up in blue on Sunday as part of international efforts to raise awareness of the debilitating neurological condition Parkinson’s.
In a show of support for World Parkinson’s Day, the city landmark will join others across the UK and abroad in becoming ablaze with blue.
World Parkinson’s Day allows 12,400 sufferers and their families in Scotland to connect with each other and millions worldwide living with the fastest growing brain condition in the world.
Parkinson's, with over 40 recognised symptoms is a progressive illness with no known cure.
The charity Parkinson’s UK Scotland is marking the day by lighting up dozens of landmarks from Lerwick to Livingston in their trademark colour.
The event is being organised by volunteer Karen McConnell who has been liaising with town and city officials across the country in an effort to get as many on board as possible.
“It’s absolutely fantastic to have the support of buildings lighting up blue for World Parkinson’s Day,” she said.
“It’s a really strong visual symbol of support for the Parkinson’s community and unites us all to mark the day.
“Having Edinburgh Castle join in for the first time this year is brilliant as it’s such a prominent landmark in Scotland.
“I hope that 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.
“We will continue to work to raise awareness until a cure is found.“
Annie Macleod, director of Parkinson's UK Scotland, said: “We are delighted to see so many iconic buildings light up for World Parkinson’s Day and are extremely grateful for their continuing support.
"This is an important symbol for just under 600 people in the Highlands who are living with the condition.
“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 will be a beacon of hope for all who live with the condition.”
