Billy Connolly lights up Scotland for Parkinson’s

After bravely revealing his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis to the world in 2013, Sir Billy Connolly, CBE has helped to raise awareness of the degenerative neurological condition for millions of people worldwide.

In 2018, he warmed hearts when he met a seven-year-old fundraiser who had been inspired by his charity work to raise over £1,200 for Parkinson’s UK. Appearing at our Glasgow gallery for the launch of his Born On A Rainy Day collection, the former welder took the time to congratulate Abby McConnell on her kindness, adding that meeting her was a “privilege”.

In 2019, the artist – who has worked with charitable organisations including Comic Relief and Amnesty International – saw his art projected onto MacLellan’s Castle in Kirkcudbright, Scotland, to mark World Parkinson’s Day (April 11th). The initiative supports Parkinson UK’s 'Parkinson's Is' campaign to address misconceptions of the disease and it was co-ordinated by Abby’s mother, Karen, and supporters around the country.

Speaking on the success of the three-day festival, the director of Parkinson’s UK Scotland, Annie Macleod, said: “We’re delighted that so many people and places showed their support for the Parkinson’s community by lighting blue for World Parkinson’s Day. The town of Kirkcudbright really shone with some fabulous artwork from Billy and other artists.”