My Personal Experience
When my mother first began struggling with everyday tasks and her memory, my parents tried to ignore it. But as many families experience, ignoring the signs doesn’t make them go away.
Eventually, I helped them take the first step and speak with their GP. I supported them through the process by listening, reassuring and helping them navigate what quickly became an overwhelming maze of appointments, information and uncertainty.
When the diagnosis was finally confirmed, it hit us hard. There was shock, sadness, and an unspoken fear of what the future might hold.
My parents weren’t ready to share the news. Like many families, they were still trying to come to terms with it themselves, and partly due to a sense of shame that often, unfairly, comes with a dementia diagnosis.
Determined to understand more, I began searching for support. I looked for groups, resources and ways for us to feel less alone.
But I quickly realised something important: while there is a wealth of information out there, when you're in your own bubble, it’s hard to find the right resources - or even know where to start.
Online modules exist, but I struggled to find personal, hands-on courses that truly offer the time, care, and empathy needed to understand dementia and its impact - not just on the person diagnosed, but on everyone around them.
My background in teaching English to teenagers and adults showed me the value of face-to-face, interactive learning. Where people feel safe to ask questions, practise and truly understand.
Later, in my role as a Training Coordinator, I deepened my understanding of dementia. This gave me tools that didn’t just help professionally; it helped me connect with my mother in her reality.
I am now trained in the Positive Approach to Care (PAC) by Teepa Snow and am a qualified Dementia Educator, also teaching Champion level courses, designed to engage the parts of the brain that remain active and strengthen relationships with those living with dementia.
By being here, you’ve already taken an important first step. If you’re feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or simply want to understand more, you’re not alone.
I would love to connect, have a chat and support you in making this journey feel a little lighter.