How we can support you
Whether you have a question that needs an immediate answer or need emotional support when life feels overwhelming, these are the ways our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses can support you.
Presented by Marianne Jones, season two covers living alone with dementia, young carers, dementia at work, and moving into a care home.
Subscribe to ‘My life with dementia’ on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts to listen to new episodes and previous seasons. Alternatively, all our season two episodes are available for you to listen to below.
Episode one: “Community meant everything after Nan’s diagnosis” – Michaela’s story
When her grandmother, Vanda, was diagnosed with vascular dementia, Michaela felt her world come crashing down. This was the woman who raised her, a role model she’d always looked up to. Feeling powerless and alone, Michaela yearned for community, and a place where dementia wasn’t taboo. A place where her nan could be herself.
When Michaela couldn’t find it, she created it. The Spring Bleau Dementia Cafe was born. This is a story about finding strength in community after a dementia diagnosis. Read more of Michaela’s story.
Two dementia nurses discuss Michaela’s episode
Episode two: “Mum’s dementia has brought our family closer” – George’s story
George’s mum Linda was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease when she was just 57. George was 22 at the time.
The years since have been characterised by adjustment. He’s seen his dad become a full-time carer, and has supported his parents through some huge changes in how and even where they live.
In this episode, George shares his experience of being thrust into the role of a young carer, and the emotional journey that has followed. Read more of George’s story.
Two dementia nurses discuss George’s episode
Episode three: “I live alone, and I have dementia” – Julie’s story
Julie received her dementia diagnosis at just 54 years old. In the space of a few minutes, the doctor delivered the news, handed her a medication prescription and said goodbye. Julie felt so overcome with shock that she burst into tears.
Julie lives on her own, and doesn’t have family members to care for her. It’s a situation many people with dementia find themselves in. She has found purpose in advocating for this community.
In this episode, Julie talks about maintaining her independence while living with dementia, finding the courage to ask for help, and the importance of amplifying the voices of people with lived experience. Read more of Julie’s story.
Two dementia nurses discuss Julie’s episode
Episode four: “Caring for Mum and Dad drove me to breaking point” – Chris’ story
Over the span of a decade, Chris cared for his parents, who both had dementia.
An only child with very little extended family, Chris assumed the role of primary carer without much discussion. He juggled parenting his own son, working full-time in the emergency services, and his caregiving role. And eventually, he reached breaking point.
In this episode, he talks about the constant battle with a system that was supposed to support him, and the importance of looking after yourself as a carer. Read more of Chris’ story.
Two dementia nurses discuss Chris’ episode
Episode five: “I was pushed into retirement after my diagnosis” – Phil’s story
A registered nurse for over 40 years, Phil found his dream role in lecturing graduate and undergraduate nurses at a university. In teaching, he had found his calling.
In 2015, Phil began to notice he was forgetting names. Sometimes he would enter a room and forget why he was there. As his symptoms became more pronounced over the following year, an initial diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment was changed to dementia with Lewy bodies.
After initially having the full support of his employer, Phil saw firsthand the lack of understanding once the word ‘dementia’ entered the equation. He has since dedicated himself to ensuring people understand their rights when it comes to the crossover between work and dementia. Read more of Phil’s story.
Two dementia nurses discuss Phil’s episode
Episode six: “I agonised over Mum’s move into full-time care” – Penny’s story
Growing up, Penny didn’t have to look far for her hero. It was Rosemary – her mum.
Rosemary had a confidence about herself. A warmth and kindness for others. And a smile that lit up a room. She taught Penny to believe in herself, to try things and see things.
In 2016, Rosemary was diagnosed with mixed dementia. For the past eight years, Penny has been her mum’s primary carer. And while there have been plenty of heartbreaking moments, the hardest came when Penny had to move Rosemary into a care home. Read more of Penny’s story.
