Research within the College of Science is central to our mission. Our research aims to be relevant to the field it relates to, and something that will make a difference to local, national and international communities. Research is not only crucial in underpinning our academic agendas, it is vital to the economic success and social fabric of society. This engagement opportunity has been supported by public engagement for all with research at Lincoln, PEARL.
In January, our School of Pharmacy held a research event, which was focused on Parkinson’s Disease (PD). For those who may not have heard of Parkinson’s, it is a degenerative neurological condition, in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over time.
The aim of the event was to explore and improve the health issues amongst the Parkinson’s Community in Lincolnshire. Attending the event was researchers, clinical pharmacists/ health care practitioners, current pharmacy students, and people living with Parkinson’s Disease and their careers.
During the event, attendees had the chance to network, offering them the opportunity to create new friendships and learn about each other’s experiences. The first session allowed individuals to discuss their journey, from the diagnosis to the daily challenges they now face. Following this, an artistic/self-expression activity session which was held, as this is often a form of therapy for people with PD.
We heard from Dr Richard Ngomba, lead PEARL grant recipient within the School of Pharmacy and Honorary clinical research fellow at ULHT, Lincoln County hospital, to hear his thoughts on the event.
“What was the reason behind holding this event?”
“It’s just a combination of many factors, no doubt yes it’s intellectual curiosity but it seems more like a sort of innate call really, to take care of people and to understand where their needs lie, then to work out with them the best solutions required to improve their wellbeing as they face the various challenges within the system.”
“Following the event, what did we learn?”
“I have to admit that I am still learning all the time, and what I have gathered on this occasion is that communication between patients and healthcare providers is essential. The togetherness of people living with PD, their families and friends are central to ensuring that everybody is well represented and heard throughout all the stages of patients’ care. Health providers need to learn more from the patients and their families.”
We also heard from one of the attendees, who commented on the event.
“I found the session very informative and unlike most social gatherings, which I wouldn’t usually attend because of my PD Symptoms. I didn’t feel uncomfortable amongst strangers. I hope in the future, there will be further opportunities like this as I found it beneficial in many ways.”
For more information on Parkinson’s Disease, please click here. Or if you or someone you know would like to take part in future sessions, please get in touch with our College of Science Marketing Team by emailing, sciencemarketing@lincoln.ac.uk.
