North-east MP Sir Robert Smith revealed yesterday that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
The Liberal Democrat member for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine said the news was “not easy” to take – but vowed to continue working and stand again at the 2015 general election.
The 55-year-old, who has represented the constituency since 1997, has been receiving treatment for the early stages of the condition at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
Sir Robert said: “I would like to thank the medical staff at ARI for the help I am receiving.
“My colleagues at Westminster and locally are being very supportive, as is my family.
“This was not easy news to receive but it is a condition that can be managed and I plan to make the best I can of it.”
It is understood Sir Robert had been feeling “not right” for some time, and is taking positives from now knowing what was wrong.
One of his political aides said it was “business as usual” last night.
Just two weeks ago, Sir Robert led the grilling of the bosses of the “big six” power firms over price rises, as acting chairman of Westminster’s energy and climate change committee.
The Press and Journal understands he plans to continue in the post.
One person in every 500 in the UK has Parkinson’s – about 127,000 in total, including 10,000 in Scotland.
It is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system, and symptoms include shaking, rigidity, slow movement and difficulty walking.
There is no cure but treatment through a number of drugs has improved in recent years.
Actor Michael J Fox, boxer Muhammad Ali, comedian Billy Connolly and MSP Margo MacDonald all have Parkinson’s.
Sir Malcolm Bruce, Lib Dem MP for Gordon, said close colleague Sir Robert told him about the diagnosis on Wednesday.
“Obviously it was a bit of a shock,” he said.
“But I think, on the positive side, he knew he wasn’t feeling right and now he has been diagnosed he will get plenty of support.
“He won’t be the first person to carry on with it. He is quite clear in his mind that he will continue and carry on, and I think that he will.”
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