Just wanted to say that is is a ground breaking achievement for a patient group to be published in the Lancet. I know how much work has gone into the whole issue of sham procedures in PD surgery over the years. I believe that this article is a direct response the results of the Sham surgery conference in which patient views were, unusually, admitted to the discussion. Both event represent the significantly high level of debate and discussion within the PD community.

That most if not all have been active members of this forum is an indicator that patient participation is starting to move in the right direction, and something to celebrate.

This year has seen the loss of several of our active 'voices'. Paula Wittekind who is one of the authors of this piece is sadly not here to see its publication.

Many thanks to all those who put so much effort into advocacy at all levels.