Lindsay goes extra mile to care for residents
A Perthshire medical specialist has spoken of the importance of raising awareness for Huntington’s Disease as the region recently marked a nationwide campaign.
Lindsay Wilson, an HD specialist with Scottish Huntington’s Association (SHA), works with clients at Balhousie Rumbling Bridge in the home’s HD specialist care unit.
She helps families who are affected by the disease, which is a rare, hereditary, degenerative disorder of the brain with symptoms including movement, behavioural and cognitive disturbances.
Following Huntington’s Disease awareness month, which took place throughout May, Lindsay believes working day to day with families inspires her to give them the best of care.
“In this role I can take a more holistic approach to the care and support of people with HD and their families while always building my skills and experience,”Lindsay said.
“I have a great balance as an SHA HD specialist working in the community and at Rumbling Bridge.
“With a younger resident group than some other homes, the staff team work well in creating a person-centred environment and ensuring activities reflect the residents’ interests and hobbies.
“The families I work with inspire me to make sure they have the support that’s right for them when they need it.
“I see families showing great resilience despite the many challenges they face.
“Being able to provide support, and being there for all families living with HD, is so important to me.”
She added:“When I was studying, my student placement really opened my eyes to the symptoms of HD and how it affects individuals and their families.
“I wanted to find out more about it and the specialist care that is needed, especially as it is a rare disease that even today is not well known or understood by the wider public and, in some cases, by health and social care professionals.”
As someone who was inspired by her experiences of HD nursing during her university years, Lindsay has sage yet simple advice for anyone interested in becoming an HD specialist.
“Find out as much as you can about Huntington’s Disease before you make your mind up,” she said.
“Working with HD families is incredibly rewarding, but you have to be ready to step out of your comfort zone and go that extra mile for people.”
Home manager at Balhousie Rumbling Bridge Lynne McMurtrie added:“The knowledge and experience Lindsay brings to our dedicated Huntington’s Disease specialist care unit at Balhousie Rumbling Bridge is second to none.
“HD is a very complex and challenging disease and the support offered by Lindsay and the wider team at Scottish Huntington’s Association has a real, positive impact on our HD families.”