North Wales landmarks go blue for World Parkinson’s Day

Beaumaris Castle in Anglesey was one of hundreds of locations across the UK to turn a special hue of blue to show solidarity with the community.

In Ynys Mon, supporter Lynn O’Dell was responsible for liaising with the iconic local buildings, businesses and community in an effort to get as many on board as possible.

Mrs O’Dell, whose husband had Parkinson’s and who volunteers for the local support group, said: “It was fantastic to see so many places across Wales light up blue for World Parkinson’s Day last night.

“As well as raising awareness of the condition, we hope that it starts a conversation or two about Parkinson’s.”

Garth Pier, Bangor.

Elsewhere, Bangor’s famous Garth Pier also turned blue in support of the cause.

In Bangor, Elaine Evans was responsible for liaising with the iconic local buildings, businesses and community in an effort to get as many on board as possible.

Ms Evans, Parkinson’s UK Wales Trustee and volunteer with the Llandudno Support Group, who lives with Parkinson’s herself, said: “Not enough people understand what the condition is or what it really means to live with it.

“It’s a really strong visual symbol of support for people affected by Parkinson’s in the local area showing them that they are not alone.

“There’s still plenty of work to do though and we will continue to raise awareness until a cure is found.”

Parkinson's is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, and while it predominantly affects older people, young people can be diagnosed with it too.

In the UK approximately 145,000 people are currently living with the condition, including more than 7,600 who live in Wales, and there is no cure.

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Reflecting on this year’s efforts, Ana Palazon, Director at Parkinson’s UK Cymru, said: “The Parkinson’s community is filled with bold and bright individuals, and it’s been incredible to see so many national landmarks across Wales turning an equally bright blue for World Parkinson’s Day.

“The idea to light up buildings came from the community and it’s been brought to life by their passion and determination.

“It’s been my privilege to have worked alongside them on this year’s activity.

“With two more people receiving a Parkinson’s diagnosis every hour - the equivalent of 18,000 a year - it’s vitally important that people with the condition feel seen and supported by their local communities, which is why we’re so grateful to everyone who lit up blue.”