Zainab Alrikabi with Lisa Lee, Glaucoma UK’s training and engagement officer for Scotland
Glasgow Caledonian University PhD student Zainab Alrikabi won Glaucoma UK’s ‘Excellence in Glaucoma Care Award 2024’ for her contribution to glaucoma care and commitment to enhancing patients’ lives.
Alrikabi was nominated by Helensburgh-based optometrist, Carolyn Aitken, who noted her compassion for glaucoma patients taking part in her research study, seeking to advance understanding of glaucoma.
‘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,’ Aitken said.
Joanne Creighton, chief executive of Glaucoma UK, added: ‘Zainab’s exemplary approach to assisting the glaucoma patients 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.’