Several of the UK’s most iconic landmarks were illuminated this weekend to raise awareness for a rare complex genetic condition that affects approximately 2,000 people in the UK. The ‘Glow Orange’ campaign, which saw landmarks lit up from sundown until sunrise, marked the end of Prader-Willi Awareness month in May.
Among the buildings glowing orange were London’s Tower 42, Cardiff Castle, The Mersey Gateway Bridge and Green’s Windmill in Nottingham. Southend Civic Centre, Worcester’s Guild Hall and Edinburgh’s Camera Obscura and World of Illusions also joined in the illumination.
Nigel Birrell, CEO of Lottoland, who sponsored the event and is a proud charity partner, said: “The Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (PWSA UK) is a cause that’s very personal to me, and I’ve been a long-time admirer of the incredible work they carry out.”
“It’s been truly inspiring to witness so many landmarks across the country light up in support of PWS awareness – the level of engagement has really touched us,” he added.
PWSA UK and FPWR UK (Foundation for Prader-Willi Research UK) have come together for a second year to plan and organise several events. One of the events, hosted earlier in the month, took place at the House of Lords in London.
The event featured speeches from both charities and members of the PWS community who shared their experiences of living with the condition. It also provided key information to help more people understand the complexities of PWS.
The aim of various events was to raise awareness and understanding of This rare condition causes an overwhelming and uncontrollable drive to eat that can be life-limiting, as well as learning and physical difficulties.
The charities hope events like these will help bring a better understanding of Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) and could lead to more effective support, potentially saving money and lives.
The charities are using the condition’s initials to help highlight the key issues associated with the disorder.
- P – Persistent hunger which can lead to life-threatening obesity.
- W – Warning signs absent, typical health warning signs are absent for people with PWS.
- S – Specialist Care – people with the condition need specialist care, with round-the-clock supervision.
Jackie Lodge of PWSA UK and Catherine Shaw of FPWR UK issued a joint statement.
They said: “We’re delighted that PWSA UK and FPWR UK have come together again for PWS month to raise awareness for such an important cause.
“We want to generate as much awareness about PWS as possible and by these buildings and landmarks lighting up orange it is a fantastic way to do so, on top of the other events that have taken place this month. We’re really grateful to these buildings for shining a light on this important cause.”
