Health

WildStrong, an outdoor movement company specializing in essential movement skills for aging individuals, has been recognized as a finalist in the Scotland region of the StartUp Awards. These awards celebrate the thriving start-up scene across the UK, which has seen remarkable growth in recent years. In 2023 alone, over 900,000 new businesses were founded in the UK, marking a 12% increase from the previous year. Nurturing Movement Skills Founded by Gill Erskine in 2021, WildStrong focuses on imparting movement knowledge crucial for maintaining physical well-being as we age. Their Level 1 course delves into understanding our bodies, critical thinking about…

In a remarkable tale of resilience and hope, Stephanie Gray, a 30-year-old woman from Edinburgh, has courageously shared her journey with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). For over a decade, Stephanie grappled with severe mental health symptoms, seeking answers and understanding. Her struggle was marked by frustration, mistreatment, and a desperate quest for a diagnosis that would change her life. The Silent Battle: PMDD Unveiled Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a rare and often misunderstood condition. It affects a small percentage of menstruating individuals, causing intense emotional and physical symptoms in the days leading up to their period. Unlike typical premenstrual syndrome…

In the serene town of Lanark, the impending closure of McClymont House care home has sent ripples of distress across the community. This establishment, more than just a residence, has been a sanctuary for the elderly, many with advanced dementia and complex care needs. The decision, stemming from a dire budget shortfall, has been met with staunch opposition from families and local campaigners who view the care home as an integral part of their lives. The Decision That Shook Clydesdale The announcement to shut down McClymont House came as a shock to many. Despite a robust campaign to save the…

In the quiet town of Scotland, a young child named Grace-Louise has been diagnosed with a rare condition that defies the natural rhythms of sleep. Known colloquially as ‘party baby syndrome,’ this condition sees the little ones staying awake for days on end, turning their lives and those of their families into an endless cycle of vigilance and care. The Mystery of Wakefulness Grace-Louise’s journey began at seven months old when she experienced her first seizure. It was the first sign of an underlying condition that would soon be known as ‘party baby syndrome.’ This rare disorder is characterized by…

In the heart of Edinburgh, a mother’s concern for her daughter’s health has brought to light the distressing conditions of their mould-infested home. This story is not just about the struggle against the physical invasion of mould but also about the emotional turmoil it brings to families seeking a safe living environment. The Hidden Enemy Within Walls Samantha Gibbs’ anticipation for a new beginning in her Edinburgh home quickly turned into a nightmare as she discovered the pervasive presence of mould. Despite her efforts to keep her belongings safe from the fungal intruder, the reality of the situation has left…

In the heart of Scotland, a silent crisis brews as patients face staggering wait times for mental health therapy, some lingering for over eight years. This alarming situation sheds light on the systemic challenges within the NHS and the dire need for reform. The Plight of Waiting A patient in the Highland region has endured an excruciating 3,019-day wait for treatment. This case, while extreme, is not isolated. In Tayside, another waits for nearly three years, and in Lothian, the wait stretches up to five years. These delays are not just numbers; they represent individuals in distress, their lives on…

In a rural part of Lanarkshire, a family’s joy at expecting a new member turned to sorrow when baby Mirabelle Bosch’s life was cut tragically short. The Bosch family, originally from South Africa, faced the unthinkable when systemic failures led to the loss of their daughter only hours after her birth. A Systemic Breakdown The Bosch family’s ordeal began with what should have been a routine home delivery. However, complications arose when Mirabelle was found to be in a breech position—a detail that had been overlooked despite earlier scans. The ensuing events highlighted a series of missteps and communication breakdowns…

In a bold stride for public health, Scotland has announced an increase in the minimum unit price for alcohol, marking a significant policy shift aimed at combating alcohol-related harm. The Genesis of Minimum Pricing Scotland’s journey with minimum unit pricing (MUP) for alcohol began in 2018, setting a precedent as the first nation to adopt such a measure. The policy’s primary aim was to tackle the scourge of alcohol misuse by establishing a floor price for alcohol sales, deterring the purchase of excessively cheap and potent alcoholic beverages. The initial MUP was set at 50p, a figure that was carefully…

In a remarkable display of resilience, Victoria Christie, a Glasgow resident, underwent a complex medical procedure where muscle from her arm was used to reconstruct her throat following a rare cancer battle. A Journey of Survival Victoria’s journey began with the discovery of a lump in her mouth, which grew in size and changed color, signaling the need for medical intervention. The diagnosis revealed a rare form of cancer, leading to a series of treatments that culminated in a surgical procedure to remove affected tissues. This left a significant void in her throat, necessitating a creative surgical solution. Surgeons turned…

In a bold move to combat the drug crisis, Glasgow has launched the UK’s first safe drug consumption room. This pioneering facility aims to provide a secure environment for drug users, potentially saving lives and offering a pathway to recovery. A New Approach to Drug Crisis The establishment of Glasgow’s safe drug consumption room marks a significant shift in Scotland’s drug policy. The facility, located in the city’s east end, is designed to offer a clean and medically supervised space for individuals to use their own drugs. This initiative is not just about reducing the harm caused by drug use…