We are delighted to share another story from one of our members about what is is like living with a diagnosis of dementia. Although World Alzheimer's Month 2016 #WAM2016 is more than half way over, we have many more to share with you as the month progresses.
Thank you Myrna.
Ps. Next week, on World Alzheimer's Day 2016, we also announce the winner of the Inaugural Richard Taylor Memorial Advocates award; it continues to be a busy and exciting month!
This is Myrna's story...
"When the GP informed me of my FTD diagnosis, shock was my first emotion. Despair, disbelief, and downright disengagement followed until my decision to educate my self, reach out to those who could mentor me and get a grip, literally.
Losses included the inability to competently do my company’s books, getting lost when driving, making decisions without forethought, and real spacial difficulties.
But hold on to your hat, some gains have also impacted my life.
My decision and my drive to direct my energies to participating in anything and everything to educate, to empathize, to empower those touched be dementia, seemed to take a life of its’ own. To offer my personal experience to anyone who may listen enabled me to join DAI, Alz Society, Purple Angels, while spreading the good word.
Having an ability to submit to WHO a simple sentence cheered my soul. The inclusion into online support groups, speaking to Richard Taylor and others working so hard on our behalf, are just some highlights.
Now an Alzheimers diagnosis as well to cope with or to excel with. I choose to excel as long as possible. Speaking to Care Aids at their graduations, taking part in forums and local fairs allows me to meet my drive to educate.
Of course, I have many days that getting dressed is an effort that I cannot meet, staying awake for full days seems impossible but always the folks in my life encourage me, understand me, and give me the space and the understanding to Do It My Way."
With love
Myrna Norman