“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”

These are the words of 18th-century Scottish poet Thomas Campbell. They ring true every year as we come together to remember those who have paid the ultimate price to protect our lives and our freedoms.

It is always an immense honour to lay a wreath on behalf of the people of Ayr, Prestwick, and Troon at our annual commemorations. This year I paid my respects at Troon’s remembrance service.

We remember those who have died in conflicts to pay tribute to them. We also do it to avoid making the same mistakes of the past and to choose peace over war. With this, we send our thoughts to our allies across the world such as those in Ukraine who are fighting to protect their country’s sovereignty.

I believe that as well as remembering those brave men and women who have passed on, we also have a duty to advocate for veterans who are still with us.

I have met, and will be meeting, with different charities that provide a wide range of support to those who have served in our armed forces to find out how I can represent them as MSP.

World Menopause Month: I was proud to lead a debate in the Scottish Parliament to mark World Menopause Month. It was great to see cross-party enthusiasm as female MSPs had a frank, and often funny, conversation about the menopause.

For too long, the subject of menopause has been a taboo, much at the expense of women. Every woman across Scotland will go through menopause at some point in their lifetime. So why is it not talked about more?

It was fascinating to attend the launch of NHS Ayrshire and Arran’s “Let’s Talk About Menopause” campaign. There I heard how 45 per cent of women have felt a negative impact at work due to menopause and do not tell their boss why they are taking time off. That’s why it is so important that women feel comfortable sharing our experiences and seeking help.

No two women will have the same symptoms and experience menopause in the same way. If you are looking for more information on menopause, visit www.nhsinform.scot.

Need my help? Please email me at: siobhian.brown.msp@parliament.scot

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