I wish I didn't have to be sat here thinking of something to write about my Dad,it’s hard to stop and think because the emotions are overwhelming. He’s too young to have this dreadful disease 😢

 A disease that has taken his soul and left him in a body that doesn't know how to work anymore and leaves him isolated, lonely and no doubt frightened. We love him so much and yet we don't know how to help him.

My Dad was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in his late 40s and then a few years later Lewy Bodies Dementia. He is now 58. 

What's his life like? Well, my Mum has been looking after him for years now  and has a daily struggle with a number of things; trying to give him his medication,feed him,help him go to the toilet,dress him,shower him,help him stand,help him sit,try to explain to him what’s happening,make sure he sleeps,lift him up off the floor in the night,the list is endless. He's suspicious and paranoid about different things,one of which is taking tablets,so that’s particularly challenging. 

Even with his tablets he can barely function these days. He can't really talk, so even when those who love him make the effort to visit him, they are unable to really connect with him. I'm sure they all feel that they wish they had had more time to chat about life, tell him what he meant to them and reminisce about better times. 

Dad can’t do anything for himself, he can’t make a cup of tea or fasten his zip or put his slippers on,he can’t read a book,hasn’t been able to write for years,he can’t drive,mow the lawn,the poor man can barely give you a hug. He has the double effects of Parkinson’s and Dementia-tough! 

It's unfair for anyone to become ill so my Dad is no different to any other person who has health problems, but it doesn't always make the sorrow go away.

 This is a man who worked hard all his life, who was honest and caring and ironically always had a soft spot for anyone who was vulnerable or disadvantaged. Together with my Mum he was a foster parent for over ten years, as well as having us four. As a local policeman he was involved in many projects in the community and even won an award for his efforts. 

Dad planned for early retirement so he could spend some time with Mum, he wanted to travel, experience an easier life and run around after the growing number of grandchildren. It's so sad that he hasn't been able to do any of these things. We do feel he has been robbed of a few years where he should have been able to reap the benefits of his hard work. 

I and my 3 siblings love Dad and wish he knew how much. He also has Mum,his own Dad,brothers,sisters,foster children,in laws,cousins,grandchildren,nephews,nieces and friends. In that way Dad is lucky and has love around him,as demonstrated by the donations made and the participation in the Walk. 

If you want to take part in the walk join us on Sunday October 7th 10.30 am in Buxton,starting point Octagon,Pavilion Gardens. 

https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/2499081/Memory-Walk-710

Any donations are also much appreciated.