I've decided to take part in this years VHI Virtual Mini Marathon 10KM in September in the hope of raising some much needed funds for the Alzheimer's Society Of Ireland; a charity that's close to my heart. In doing this, if I could even get a little more information / awareness out there about Frontotemporal Dementia it would be great.

 

 

 

 

In 2015 my Mum was diagnosed with a very rare form of Dementia - Frontotemporal Dementia. She was only 60 at the time of diagnosis. I always thought there was just one type of Alzheimer's / Dementia and couldn't understand how someone so young could get this. It was only then I realised there were so many different types.

 

 

 

 

 

Fronto-temporal Dementia (FTD)

This form of dementia can affect behaviour and personality and language function. The life expectancy is 2 - 10 years. Some cases of FTD are linked to motor neurone disease. With FTD the early symptoms vary, depending on which area of the brain is affected. They may include:

• changes in personality changes in eating patterns,

• lack of personal awareness (e.g. personal hygiene) or

• lack of social awareness (e.g. being tactless).

• Difficulties speaking or understanding others can be a main symptom in the early stages.

It is more common in younger people (45-65) but can also develop in older individuals.

 

What is happening in the brain?

FTD affects the front section of the brain, and the temporal lobes (over the ears). If the frontal lobes are affected, the person will have increasing difficulty with motivation, planning and organising, controlling emotions, and maintaining socially appropriate behaviour. If the temporal lobes are affected the person will have difficulty with speaking and/or understanding language.

 

I'd really love if you could give anything even a small amount to help the Alzheimer's society. My Dad and I will never forget how amazing and supportive they were from time of diagnosis up until when Mum passed away in 2019. It's so hard to watch someone you love fade away, but the alzheimers society really care and give you so much help and information. They also not only look after the person with the diagnosis but support the family in ways you couldn't imagine. We would have been lost without them.

 

Thanks for your support , it might only be 10KM but hopefully it's the start of more things like this and continuing to support The Alzheimers Society!

 

 

 

 

Anita Burke xx