What can I say, My Dad was Kind, thoughtful, sharp as a tack and someone who You would think was a world away from being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Proud of HIs family and always well dressed, and so very, very tidy, everything had a place. It started with forgetfulness and minor issues to a point where Dad wouldn’t know wether it was day or night and caring for Him from home was not only getting harder but was putting Dad at more risk and Mum struggling to cope. As a family unit We are strong but this was a test for Us All. Because of this Dad moved into a care home and spent His time there, re arranging furniture, helping the staff and was happy. Yes He forgot our names, possibly even who we were, but there was trust and laughs (and tears) and always Love, both ways. What I haven’t said is Dad wasn’t just Our Dad, He was a Husband to Me Ma, a Grandad and a Great Grandad and was adored by All of Us however things went.

But here we are some 5 years later and Dad has passed from the complications that arise from such a cruel disease. I feel a relief that Dad is free from this, but the hole His passing has left is hard to put into words. The illness took away someone I turned to for advice, for help and for clarity when I wasn’t sure. We, as a family, are out to raise as much as we can to help research into the cruel effects of Alzheimer’s and alleviate suffering for the future generations.