On the occasion of the State Opening of the 5th Session of the Scottish Parliament by Her Majesty The Queen, Jamie Greene MSP was pleased to welcome Ms Suzanne Fernando, Cancer & Autism Activist and decorated Royal Military Police Veteran from Ardrossan to the Scottish Parliament. The local MSP nominated Ms Fernando as a “Local Hero” in recognition for her tireless efforts in charity across Ayrshire.
Suzanne was recognised for her relentless fundraising activity over many years, for both the Cervical Cancer and Autism awareness charities.
Conservative MSP for West Scotland, Jamie Greene said:
“Suzanne is an inspiration to everyone whom she engages with. She is someone who has had her own personal challenge, yet lifts everyone’s spirit as she engages in support for others. I felt it only right to invite her to Parliament on the day that the Queen opened the new session of parliament, to say thank-you to her and her family for everything that she does. It was also a pleasure to welcome Richard Wilkinson, chairman of the North Ayrshire and Arran Conservatives to the Chamber. He sat in the public gallery as her Majesty spoke to parliament. It was a very special day out for all.”
Suzanne Fernando said:
"Aaron [Suzanne’s daughter] and I enjoyed meeting Jamie again who kindly gave us a tour around the Chambers. On behalf of The National Autistic Society & Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust I'd also like to thank Graeme Brooks and Richard Wilkinson for their hospitality and look forward to returning to Parliament after recess to raise awareness of the charities I work with."
The State Opening of Parliament is the official ceremony which opens the formal proceedings of the new session of parliament. In attendance was Her Majesty the Queen and Prince Phillip who stay at nearby Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the Queen in Scotland.
