“I’m determined to make the most of my life post diagnosis”

Susan was 58 when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. 

She shares her story of life beyond her diagnosis:

I was working as a medical scientist in the Haematology Lab at Liverpool Hospital when I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at only 58.  

I loved my job and had always planned to work into my 70s so I was devastated when I had to medically retire.  

Suddenly I was unable to work – not only had I lost my income, I had also lost the daily stimulation I got from my career.

Staying physically and mentally active

Although the diagnosis was life changing, I try my best to reduce stress and do anything that involves my love of music and dance.

I decided on being thankful for every day and saying yes to activities that improve my physical fitness, use my brain and include mixing with people.

Staying healthy is important to me so I do Pilates, yoga, aqua aerobics and weights.

I eat well and try to nap every afternoon.

Music brings me so much joy and since my diagnosis I have been learning the baritone ukelele and how to read music.

I am also learning belly dancing and, before that, l learnt rock n’ roll dancing for two years.

Every weekend I go dancing with my friends.

Another fun way I look after my health is attending brain games sessions that stimulate different parts of brain function.

The support of family and friends

I’m very fortunate to have two close friends who care for me and support me every day. I’m truly blessed to have them.

I also have two sons who I’m very fond of and my younger son looks out for me.

My parents are still with us, although my dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in his late 70s and several members of his family have had it too.

I’ve got four sisters and a brother, and even though we’re spread out, we keep in touch with regular phone calls.

Advocacy – connection and awareness

I wanted to do something positive so I became a Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate.

I believe it is important to share personal stories with others as it helps all of us living with this disease.

Also being an advocate can help raise awareness of dementia which can affect positive change in research, government policy and in society as many of us know someone with dementia.

I’ve always been a positive and solution-focused person and I’m determined to make the most of my life post diagnosis.

Life is good!

Support and information

Thank you to Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate Susan for sharing her story.

You can find out more about the Dementia Advocates Program on our website.

Dementia Australia provides support to people of all ages who are impacted by dementia.

You can contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, chat with a Helpline Advisor on webchator email us at helpline@dementia.org.au.