A bench celebrating a national charity’s work in supporting families affected by Huntington’s Disease has been unveiled on Tayside.
The specially-designed bench was installed at Linlathen Neurological Care Centre in Dundee to mark the 30th anniversary of Scottish Huntington’s Association (SHA).
The centre houses Bridgeview unit, a purpose-designed facility for the care of people with Huntington’s Disease (HD).
A number of Tayside families who collectively donated the bench gathered to mark the occasion.
It is the fourth such bench to be made. Others are in Kinross, Lothian and Fife.
1100 people in Scotland have been diagnosed with HD and a further 6000 people are at risk of developing the incurable disease.
Children of an HD parent have a 50% chance of inheriting the gene and because it is hereditary, it impacts upon entire families over generations rather than individuals in isolation.
Bill McLellan, chair of Tayside family branch, said: “We’re very pleased to donate this bench to mark the 30th anniversary of SHA, which provides a valuable service to families across the country.
“We thank all our supporters and volunteers who work so hard to raise funds so that we’re able to help improve the quality of life for those affected by HD.”
Paula Mcfadyen, senior Huntington’s specialist, said: “I hope that this very special bench, which has been donated by families across Tayside and dedicated to loved ones with HD, offers a quiet spot for people to sit and relax for a moment or two.
“As we recognise the 30th Anniversary of SHA, it’s important to acknowledge how it has grown from a small, grassroots organisation to a national charity that delivers world-leading services and support here in Tayside and across Scotland.
“The charity was started by families affected by HD and families remain at the very heart of all that we do.
“We’re thankful to Tayside Family Branch for continuing to play such an important role in furthering our work to improve the lives of people affected by HD, and for the kindness they are showing with the gift of this beautiful bench for use by the residents of Linlathen and their loved ones.”
SHA is the only charity in Scotland dedicated exclusively to supporting HD families with lifeline services, including a network of specialists, financial and wellbeing guidance and youth advisers.
