Parkinson's UK local group saves Glasgow hospital
20 December 2011
Our Lightburn Glasgow East Support
Group has saved the hospital that houses their specialist
Parkinson's service from closure.
The campaigners' commitment and passion is an inspiring example of what people can achieve, despite the challenges of living with Parkinson's.
Katherine Crawford, Parkinson's UK Scotland Manager
Following months of campaigning led by the Parkinson's UK
support group, the Scottish Government rejected the proposal by NHS
Greater Glasgow and Clyde to close Lightburn Hospital in Glasgow
and move services to other hospitals in the city.
The campaign included a 14,000 signature petition, which was
presented to the Heath Board, as well as public meetings and a
Parliamentary debate.
There was also a meeting between our local group members and the
Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing, Nicola Sturgeon, who
made the final decision not to close the hospital.
About the Lightburn Glasgow East Support Group
Our Lightburn Glasgow East Support Group offers support and
friendship for anyone affected by Parkinson's in the local area. It has about 350
members.
The group is chaired by Gerry McCann, who ran this campaign.
Gerry has had Parkinson's for 15 years, and was diagnosed when he
was 35.
Early Christmas present for people of East Glasgow
Katherine Crawford, Parkinson's UK Scotland Manager,
comments:
Inspired by this news? Get involved with our campaigning work - or find out about support and information local to you.
"We are delighted to be able to celebrate this early Christmas
present for the people of East Glasgow.
"This decision will make a huge difference to hundreds of people
affected by Parkinson's in East Glasgow, and to the wider
community.
"People throughout the East End value Lightburn Hospital. And
they were extremely concerned about what would happen to people who
needed care if these services were ripped out of the area.
"Gerry McCann and his team have run a brilliant campaign,
highlighting the importance of local services and teams of
professionals working together to support families.
"The campaigners' commitment and passion provides an inspiring
example of what people can achieve, despite the many challenges of
living with Parkinson's.
"We're delighted that Nicola Sturgeon has listened to the
community, and recognised the need to retain services at
Lightburn."
Inspired by what our members in Glasgow have achieved?
Get involved with our campaigning work. Help us make sure people
living with Parkinson's are treated fairly, with access to the
support they need.
Find out about support and information
local to you.
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