Scotland marked World Parkinson’s Day 2019 by turning blue, with 90 venues across the country lighting up for the night. Kirkcudbright marked the day in spectacular style with a stunning display of blue lights and artwork projected onto buildings throughout the town, supported by Scotland’s own Sir Billy Connolly.
After bravely revealing his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis to the world in 2013, Sir Billy Connolly, CBE has helped to raise awareness of the degenerative neurological condition for millions of people worldwide.
In 2018, he warmed hearts when he met a seven-year-old fundraiser who had been inspired by his charity work to raise over £1,200 for Parkinson’s UK. Appearing at Glasgow’s Castle Gallery for the launch of his Born On A Rainy Day collection, the former welder took the time to congratulate Abby McConnell on her kindness, adding that meeting her was a “privilege”.
This year, the artist – who has worked with charitable organisations including Comic Relief and Amnesty International – saw his art projected onto MacLellan’s Castle, the Tolbooth Arts Centre and other buildings in Kirkcudbright, to mark World Parkinson’s Day (April 11th). The initiative supports Parkinson UK’s ‘Parkinson’s Is’ campaign to address misconceptions of the disease and it was co-ordinated by Abby’s mother, Karen, and supporters around the country. The Kirkcudbright event was created by Colin Saul, Pamela Bayes and members of local community groups Kirkcudbright Arts & Crafts and Summer Festivities, with assistance from Kirkcudbright Rotary and Dumfries and Galloway Council. The artwork of three other Scottish Artists, Craig Campbell, Lynn Howarth and Margaret Rae was also featured, with all 3 artists attending the event in Kirkcudbright.
Speaking on the success of the three-day festival, Jan Mattison, Regional Fundraiser for Parkinson’s UK and resident of Kirkcudbright, said: “We’re delighted that so many people and places showed their support for the Parkinson’s community by lighting blue for World Parkinson’s Day. The town of Kirkcudbright really shone with some fabulous artwork from Billy and other artists. We can’t thank the local community enough for their tremendous support”
Find out more at: www.parkinsons.org.uk/parkinsons-is
