The sights of East Kilbride raise money for charity

Nov 14 2012 by Nicola Findlay, East Kilbride News

A charity which supports those with epilepsy is using the sights of East Kilbride to raise funds and awareness.

Lanarkshire Epilepsy Support Group was formed in 2011 and a calendar, featuring photos taken in East Kilbride, has gone on sale.

The charity meets monthly, covering a variety of relevant topics to support people with epilepsy, their families and carers.

They hope that the sale of its 2013 calendars and the sending of the postcards attached to it will assist in the charity’s networking and establishing of its services.

Group member Debbie Service, who took the photographs for the calendar told the News: “We thought the calendar would be a good way of promoting the group, and a step towards achieving our aim – to raise awareness and understanding of epilepsy and reduce the stigma surrounding the condition.

“As the group grows, the hope is that members will take pictures of their particular part of Lanarkshire, to make a Lanarkshire calendar.

“The best thing about the calendar is that each picture is a ‘tear off’ picture postcard of East Kilbride, ideal for keeping in touch with family or friends who have moved away.”

East Kilbride South councillor Archie Buchanan added his support to the charity’s latest venture, saying: “I am delighted to support this 2013 calendar put together by Debbie Service on behalf of Lanarkshire Epilepsy Support Group.

“It highlights many of the lovely areas we have within our town.

“I’m sure the calendar will be in demand from families around the town and further afield with the festive season just around the corner as a Christmas gift and can be obtained from Debbie on 07595501278 or from myself at Greenhills Community Hall any Saturday morning as part of the Greenhills Weekly Market.”

Lanarkshire Epilepsy Support Group provides much needed support to the estimated 4528 patients, including children, living in the Lanarkshire Health Board area.

There are no adult epilepsy services and the first seizure clinic in Hairmyres hospital has a long waiting list.

Most people have to travel to epilepsy services in Glasgow, not ideal for someone who is not feeling at their best.