On December 3rd, after weeks of planning with my dynamo-of-a-wife, I hosted my first-ever photo gallery showing at the Riverdale Hub in Toronto, and it couldn’t have gone better.
First, a bit of the backstory. After my initial diagnosis last spring I was obviously in shock and spent a few months trying to absorb this life-changing news. The discovery of Dementia Alliance International (DAI) really changed a lot for me as I learned there was a place out there that focused on supporting those living with a diagnosis of dementia. I was keen to get involved. I have always had a passion for the visual arts - photography in particular - and this hobby turned into a bit of a lifeline for me during the early days of my diagnosis. Fast forward a few months, and that is when my wife and I decided to share my diagnosis with our broader circle and do something positive along the way. We decided to host a fundraiser in the form of a photography show. Proceeds would be donated to DAI and it would be a chance to allow friends and family to demonstrate their support and also show them that there are many, like me, living beyond this diagnosis.
After much planning we made it to the day of the big event where we had 15 of my photos framed and hung on the wall. As day turned to night, acquaintances and family members started trickling in and before I knew it, the gallery was packed with friends, families and colleagues, spanning decades.
Kristin and I both shared a few words accounting for my challenging initial journey into early onset dementia. We reflected on those early dark days upon learning about my diagnosis, and how I came to understand that all is not lost just because I have dementia, and more so, the gifts that it gives back to me towards living a more purposeful life, one where my days are designed with intent.
All in all the show was a huge success on so many fronts. All of my photos were sold, we raised money for DAI and more importantly, we showed our broader community the importance of learning more about dementia. There are so many impacted by this disease who continue to live meaningful lives but face the stigma that surrounds this disease. Our goal is to do our part to educate those around us and to continue to support the amazing work that DAI does.
🌟 About DAI
Dementia Alliance International (DAI) is a global advocacy and support organization led by and for people living with dementia. Our mission is to empower individuals with dementia to live with dignity, purpose, and support through peer-to-peer connections, education, and advocacy. Read more here.
🤝 Join Us
Are you living with dementia? Become a member today to access our peer support groups, webinars, and a global community of peers. Membership is free and open to people with a confirmed dementia diagnosis. Sign up here.
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Your donations help us continue to provide free support services, raise awareness, and advocate for the rights of people living with dementia. Every contribution makes a difference. Donate here.
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