Kay Mair, NHS Forth Valley Lead Nurse for Parkinson’s and one of Scotland’s longest serving Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists, spent a day with royalty after receiving an invitation to help celebrate the work of Parkinson’s Nurses around the UK.

An afternoon tea reception was hosted by the Duchess of Gloucester, Patron of Parkinson’s UK at St James’s Palace, London to celebrate and recognise the 35th anniversary of the Parkinson’s Nurse. Twenty seven nurses were invited from across the UK to share their experiences as long serving professionals who have played an integral role in education, service development and research within the Parkinson’s community.

Kay has been a part of the Parkinson’s nursing community since 1996, and in the same year, she became a founding member of the Association of Scottish Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists (ASPNS). Reflecting on this milestone event, she noted how it marked a significant personal journey within the field and was a testament to the dedication of Parkinson’s nurses across Scotland.

Kay explained: “I had the privilege of attending a training course run by Rosemary McGuire, the UK’s first Parkinson’s Nurse, and her colleague, Consultant Doug MacMahon, shortly after beginning my own role in 1996. Their pioneering work laid the foundation for the care and support that Parkinson’s nurses provide to patients today.

“This event was a powerful reminder of the long standing dedication within the Parkinson’s nursing community. It was an honour to be a part of this celebration, and I am proud to have been part of this journey for so many years. The work we do continues to evolve, and it was inspiring to meet so many fellow professionals who are equally committed to supporting those living with Parkinson’s.”

“A particular highlight of the day was listening to the Duchess of Gloucester, who gave a heartfelt speech and then met each nurse, asking insightful questions and showing a genuine interest in our work.”

Professor Suvankar Pal, NHS Forth Valley Clinical Lead Neurology, added: “Kay Mair has dedicated her professional career to improving outcomes for people living with Parkinson’s disease in NHS Forth Valley for almost 30 years.  We are all enormously grateful for the hard work, enthusiasm, and energy that she brings to her role each day and appreciate that we are very lucky to have her as a key member of our inter-disciplinary team.”

The royal event not only provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress of Parkinson’s care over the years but also highlighted the importance of continued collaboration and innovation within the field.

For further information about Parkinson’s UK and their work, visit the Parkinson’s UK website.