Hello! We are already seven days into Brain Health Awareness Month, and have not yet posted anything about it! Oops!
So, to kickstart this theme, we are sharing an update from a senior leader and member of DAI, Valerie Schache, who recently took over hosting the twice monthly Brain Health Meetigns we hold as part of our Brain Health Hub.
Val writes:
Brain Health Hub is a very special arm of Dementia Alliance International. It came about when a number of enthusiastic people kept on talking about the benefits of the Bredesen type protocol. It was then suggested we start our own group, which still meets fortnightly on a Tuesday morning for me in Australia.
I’ve contributed to the hub from the beginning and continue to be passionate about the latest research /science-based evidence but also people’s testimonials on what has changed their dementia journey. Most has been for the better but if an action hasn’t been wise or helpful re health or supplements; that is also discussed. The strength of the group is that no question can’t be asked.
In line with DAI principles, medical advice is not given but suggestions are made to discuss with your relevant health professional if this advice is suitable for you.
I’m Valerie Schache now 69- I’m called Val and I was diagnosed in 2015 as a Young Onset Dementia. I have a mixed dementia and keep confounding experts as like many in the Brain Health Hub we have reversed some dementia symptoms, stabilised others and keep chasing improvement. I prefer the guidance of Functional Integrated Medicine – aka a multi modal holistic approach of precision medicine.
My background – I grew up on a farm is South Australia and pioneered many things in farming and my 32 years in my physiotherapy profession. The most notable is to be the first acupuncturist physiotherapist in public health in all of Australia in 1989. TCM Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture helps staying well with health co- morbidities including dementia. I was a rural/ remote physio until moving to Ballina NSW in 1987 and practiced till 2005.
Dementia deficits have not affected my considerable physiotherapy and acupuncture knowledge. I can still read a scientific paper of any genre and give back six points in plain speak depending on my audience. I have taken courses at our local University to distinguish fake science from credible research and findings.
I’m passionate about making a better way for people being diagnosed with MCI or dementia to be able to have a future and a hope. I didn’t laugh until I found DAI zoom support groups in 2016.
Being part of Brain Health Hub had allowed me to continue to be a community educator for best practice and outcomes. It has given me great joy to see the likes of co- founder Maria Turner Paula Wolfert and Chrissy Theilker helped. Bill Yeates is a fellow Aussie scientist with insights and scientific approach.
I’m honoured to host the DAI Brain Health Hub group. We welcome new people to come and join as they are able. No questions can not be asked. I’ve found deep friendships develop over the time as we share triumphs and sorrows. We have each other’s back and kindness covers all we do.
Meeting formats sometimes include a theme or specific topic, a video or a guest speaker. The group is driven by the members ideas, themes, suggestions and most importantly, their needs.
Everyone is welcome!
People with and without dementia can join these meetings, whether you are supporting your own brain health, looking after someone with dementia, or simply interested in it. Please contact us here to receive the emails with dates and login details.