It is a unique photographic exhibition, which celebrates the resilience of the human spirit in adversity.
And this image of Stephen Morrison, a 61-year-old former BP employee, comes with a striking message.
“Don’t Write Me Off”.
The picture forms part of a collection of 18 contemporary photographs featuring residents from Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centres.
And there is a bond between Mr Morrison, a resident of the centre at Dee View Court in Aberdeen, and Rosie Duca, who took all the images for the exhibition which was on display in the Granite City.
The former is battling with multiple sclerosis, but he can still knock off his daily cryptic crossword, beat most people at Scrabble and win hands down at cards.
Ms Duca, meanwhile, was diagnosed with a giant brain aneurysm in 2015 and that experience motivated her to use her photographic skills to challenge negative stereotypes of people living with complex neurological conditions.
Sue Ryder Dee View Court has organised the Don’t Write Me Off exhibition as a means of raising awareness of neurological issues whilst launching its £3.9m Capital Appeal.
The organisation wants to expand its current centre to cater for 44 residents – allowing for 20 more people to receive round the clock care.
Mr Morrison has no doubts about the myriad benefits associated with his life at Sue Ryder Dee View Court. He is now in a wheelchair, but friends regularly pick him up and take him for a beer and a curry.
And although his condition means he can no longer continue his passion for driving classic cars – in earlier years, the former Merchant Navy engineer restored a wonderful red Triumph TR6 – his keen interest in vintage cars continues.
Ms Duca said: “After my own experience, I realised that a neurological condition can happen to anyone, at any time, it just doesn’t discriminate.
“And while it can completely turn your life upside down, it doesn’t mean your life is over.
“With the right care and support, you can still lead as full a life as possible and that is what I want the exhibition to convey: the people, the personalities and the real lives behind those with neurological conditions.”
The exhibition will be open for public viewing, at the H1 Building, Hill of Rubislaw in Aberdeen, from Thursday, June 15 to Sunday, June 18, from 9am-7pm.
‘An amazing place on our doorstep’
Sue Ryder Dee View Court’s Capital Appeal has received the support of BP luminary, Trevor Garlick OBE.
As Appeal Board Chair, he has spoken highly about the centre and wants more people to recognise the work it does to help those with neurological conditions.
He said: “It’s a facility that is a bit hidden in Aberdeen. I didn’t know we had this amazing place on our doorstep, serving not just local people the city and shire, but across Scotland, so I am passionate about championing the appeal.
“I’ve seen first-hand the impact the centre has and the professionalism and support offered is remarkable.
“In order to continue, develop and increase this, we need the backing of individuals, corporate companies, organisations, and community groups to donate, volunteer and support.
“Together, we can help more people get the care they need.”
How you can support the Capital Appeal:
Send a cheque made out to ‘Sue Ryder’ to Sue Ryder Dee View Court, Caiesdykes Rd, Aberdeen AB12 5JY.
Or go to:
http://www.sueryder.org/deeviewdonate
To make a gift over the phone, please ring: 0207 554 5985 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) with your debit/credit card ready.
