London’s Tower 42, Cardiff Castle, The Mersey Gateway Bridge and Green’s Windmill in Nottingham were among the buildings to ‘Glow Orange’ to highlight Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS)
This weekend saw some of the UK’s most iconic landmarks bathed in light to raise awareness for a rare complex genetic condition affecting around 2,000 people in the UK. The illumination lasted from sunset on Friday until sunrise Saturday morning, across 17 different landmarks, marking the conclusion of Prader-Willi Awareness month in May.
Landmarks such as London’s Tower 42, Cardiff Castle, The Mersey Gateway Bridge and Green’s Windmill in Nottingham were among those glowing orange to spotlight Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). Southend Civic Centre, Worcester’s Guild Hall and Edinburgh’s Camera Obscura and World of Illusions also shone bright in an orange hue.
Nigel Birrell, CEO of Lottoland, the company behind the activation and a proud charity partner, expressed: “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.”
For the second year running, PWSA UK and FPWR UK (Foundation for Prader-Willi Research UK) have collaborated to plan and organise several events, one of which was held at the House of Lords on 14th May.
Held in the capital city, it featured speeches from both charities and members of the PWS community who shared their experiences of living with the condition. The event also offered information to help people understand the complexities of PWS.
The objective of the events was to raise awareness and understanding of the rare condition, which triggers an overpowering and uncontrollable urge to eat that can be life-limiting, as well as causing learning and physical difficulties.
They hope that a better understanding will lead to more effective support which will save money and lives. The charities are also collectively utilising the disorder’s initials to help people identify key issues associated with the condition:
P – Persistent hunger: 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 round-the-clock supervision.
Jackie Lodge from PWSA UK and Catherine Shaw from FPWR UK released 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.”