In 2012 my Dad was diagnosed with early onset dementia at the age of 52 whilst I was still in school. This came as a surprise to all of us as he was active attending the gym and ate healthily.

Following my dads diagnosis we did what we could to create memories with him while it was still possible. Then unfortunately he suffered his third stroke in 2016 which accelerated the deterioration of the disease. In the following years my Dad struggled with everyday tasks that we would take for granted such as washing himself and getting dressed, making a drink, using a seat belt and eating by himself. This resulted in my mum becoming a sole carer 24/7 and relying on other family members if she needed to go out such as shopping and appointments. 

In November 2019 both myself and Becky finally convinced Mum to allow Dad go in to a care home for respite initially for a week. This had to happen as being the sole carer was having a huge negative impact on her mental health. As we were already losing one parent, we were not prepared to lose another. During this week, my Mum realised how much pressure she was under and couldn't switch off, even having to be aware of his movements during the night as he wouldn't sleep. The care home staff were shocked that my Mum had cared for my dad on her own as he was classed as having advanced dementia and required professional round the clock care. Following this discussion it was decided it was best for dad to move to the home permanently to receive the best care possible. 

Currently one person in every three minutes is diagnosed with dementia In the UK dementia and is effecting 850,000 families. Dementia is one of the main causes of disability later in life, ahead of cancer, cardiovascular disease and stroke. As a country we spend much less on dementia than on these other conditions. 

I have experienced the heartache and upset this causes to the individual and their family. I am wanting to raise money to help prevent this happening to people in the future. 

We all miss what my dad was like before dementia. But I bet nobody misses what my dad was like before dementia more than my dad. 

Thank you for your time reading, any donations are really appreciated.

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