The Society for Endocrinology conference

The Society for Endocrinology, Parathyroid UK and Ascendis Pharma UK have unveiled a new mural the Society for Endocrinology conference that “reflects the lived experiences” of patients with hypoparathyroidism and aims to raise awareness of the rare endocrine condition.

Commonly known as hypopara, hypoparathyroidism occurs when the parathyroid glands do not produce enough parathyroid hormone. This causes blood calcium levels to fall and blood phosphorus levels to rise, which can result in a wide range of symptoms, including tingling sensations, muscle twitching, cramps, fatigue and mood changes.

Patients can also experience long-term complications, such as kidney problems, calcification outside the bone and cognitive difficulties. These challenges can not only affect their immediate health, but can significantly impact their employment, personal and social lives, and overall well-being.

The artwork was unveiled on 10 March at the Society for Endocrinology BES Conference in Harrogate, UK. It was created with input from the hypoparathyroidism community and depicts a butterfly, which is often used as a symbol of thyroid awareness and as a sign of hope, with its universal representation of change resonating with those experiencing challenging conditions.

Lincolnshire-based artist Lynn Norris, who is living with hypoparathyroidism herself, hand-painted the mural and said she is “incredibly proud to bring this condition to life visually and to create this mural for every person with hypopara”.

She continued: “The whole process has been emotional; when you are asked about symptoms and your experience, and hopes for the future, you realise what you have lost, and the daily struggles that have become normalised.

“I hope this mural stands as a symbol of strength, resilience and a turning point towards positive change for the hypopara community.”

The butterfly is a key element of Seeds of Change, a nature-inspired initiative created by Ascendis and supported by Parathyroid UK and the Society for Endocrinology that aims to enhance education, improve support and make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by hypoparathyroidism.

Ben Whitehouse, general manager UK and IE, Ascendis Pharma, said: “Along with Parathyroid UK and the Society for Endocrinology, we are excited to launch this important initiative at this key conference in Harrogate.

“The hypopara community is often underserved and along with our partners, we are committed to improving the experiences of those with this overlooked condition.”

After the conference, more personal stories and insights will be incorporated into the mural to ensure it accurately reflects the challenges and hopes associated with hypopara.

Parathyroid UK’s chief executive officer, Liz Glenister, said: “Seeds of Change and this mural powerfully depict the everyday challenges faced by those with this often-overlooked condition.

“The reaction we’ve had from the community so far has motivated us to continue to raise awareness, combat misunderstandings and inspire hope for the future for people with hypopara.”

Laura Udakis, director of Membership Engagement, Society for Endocrinology, added: “The unveiling of the butterfly mural… marks a significant milestone for the hypopara community.  We are proud that this event has paved the way for the first phase of the Seeds of Change initiative to come to life.”