Glaucoma UK is delighted to announce that the recipient of this year's Excellence in Glaucoma Care Award is Zainab Alrikabi, a dedicated PhD student at Glasgow Caledonian University. The annual Glaucoma UK ‘Excellence in Glaucoma Care Award’ celebrates individuals or teams making remarkable contributions to the field of glaucoma care, recognising their commitment to enhancing patients' lives.
Zainab's compassion and care for glaucoma patients participating in her research study have earned her the award. Nominated by Carolyn Aitken, an optician in Helensburgh who encouraged patients to take part in the study, Zainab's exemplary approach to working with people with glaucoma resonated with patients and professionals alike.
Carolyn Aitken explained, "Zainab was so lovely and patient. She demonstrated remarkable empathy by personally assisting patients who were travelling by public transport to take part in the study, helping them when navigating through unfamiliar terrain to ensure their comfort and ease. The feedback I have had from everyone I referred to the study has been fantastic, and they all thanked me for mentioning the research to them."
In response to being awarded the honour, Zainab remarked, "I am deeply touched by this recognition, but the real gratitude belongs to the patients who have participated in my research. Their eagerness to contribute and engage truly inspired me. I am immensely thankful for their involvement."
Zainab's win comes as a testament to her dedication and the significance of patient-centred research. Her study not only seeks to advance understanding of glaucoma but has certainly already contributed to cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment for patients.
Upon being presented with the award, Zainab expressed her heartfelt appreciation, stating, "I am genuinely surprised and immensely grateful for this acknowledgment. This award not only honours my work but also recognises the invaluable contributions of my supervisors at Glasgow Caledonian University and the patients involved in the study."
Joanne Creighton, Chief Executive of Glaucoma UK, commended Zainab's support for glaucoma patients and emphasised the pivotal role of patient engagement in research. "Zainab's exemplary approach to assisting the glaucoma patients taking part in her research study underscores the importance of fostering a collaborative environment where patients feel valued and empowered. The way she has engaged with the volunteers taking part in her study serves as an inspiration to all involved in glaucoma research and care,".
Glaucoma UK encourages nominations for the 2025 Excellence in Glaucoma Care Award, inviting individuals or teams from all areas of glaucoma care to be recognised for their outstanding contributions. For more information and to submit nominations, please visit the Glaucoma UK website at glaucoma.uk/glaucoma-care-awards.
