What a great day we had on Saturday sharing Paul’s wedding, it was a wonderful celebration. Thank you, Paul, for allowing us to share the day with both of you.
The week ahead in Scotland is Dementia Awareness Week. It is an important week, a week where we can consider the issues faced by those living with dementia and their carers. Far too often people become isolated by their diagnosis and it is important to keep those living with dementia a part of the community. I have had the privilege of working in this field for more than thirty years and what I have come to realise is that no two people living with dementia present in the same way. We all then need to be in relationship with those living with dementia if we are going to learn about what they bring to our world.
People who live with dementia are intelligent, inspiring people but if you want to understand what I mean then you will need to develop relationships with those living with dementia. Be prepared to develop unique, emotional and beautiful relationships with people as you engage, your life will be so much brighter.
Thursday this week is a big week for me. The Forget Me Notes are singing in The Gyle Shopping Centre with Alzheimer Scotland as they have a stall in the centre with an aim to raise awareness and raise the voices of those living with dementia. As a former employee of Alzheimer Scotland, I will get the chance of working alongside some wonderful staff (Paula & Debbie) even if it is only for just one day. If you live in Edinburgh and can get to the Gyle then we will be there at 1:45 until 3pm and its going to be great.
I listened to a political pitch this week that promised to make my life richer. Well, if all you have to offer me is money then you have really missed the point. I am happy to tell you that my riches are found in the relationships I have with people. So, my understanding of Dementia Awareness week is of celebration. It is a celebration of all the wonderful carers and those people living with dementia who have touched my life.
Now if you still haven’t listened to our Forget Me Notes Song then this is your chance, you can find it at: www.forgetmenotes.org.uk/film-audio
When you have listened tell me what you think. Have a great week!