Sadie Howe, from Rotherham sadly lost her grandparents, who both suffered with dementia back in 2021 and 2022. Sadie tells her story.
“My Nannan, Barbara was first diagnosed with Vascular Dementia following a mini stroke in 2012. We noticed a change soon after the stroke, she became easily confused and forgetful. Then in 2018, my Grandad, Roy, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s after a rapid change in his behaviour.
“My grandparents were honestly the best grandparents you could ask for. We always used to sing “simply the best” to them, it was their song. They were such selfless people, they did so much for their community and are very fondly remembered in their village. My Nan was a talented seamstress and baker and she spent her time making christening gowns, dance costumes, wedding dresses and birthday cakes for people and never charged them for her time.
“As soon as my Nannan was diagnosed she started to lose her confidence and became withdrawn. My Grandad declined quicker than my Nannan after his diagnosis, he began forgetting things and becoming very confused. He would get so frustrated with himself because he couldn’t string a sentence together and get his words right.
“Grandad was admitted to hospital during Covid, and at this time visiting restrictions were in place. Due to his condition, he struggled to eat, which led to significant weight loss and after a 10-week stay, he was discharged. We were heartbroken to lose Grandad six days later, surrounded by his loved ones.
“When my Nannan needed care, we requested that she was brought to Rotherham Hospital. We are forever grateful to the staff at Rotherham Hospital for the care my Nan received in her final year, their communication was great and they went above and beyond to ensure me and my family were listened to.”
“We lost Nannan in February 2022.
“It would mean a lot to me to see improvements in dementia care and better support because the dementia experience is so hard as it is, anything that can be done to make it a less stressful time the better. With dementia you grieve twice because you watch the person you knew die slowly overtime, and then the shell they’re left with eventually passed on too. It’s a very traumatic time for a family and I think these people deserve the most amazing care and comfort during such a horrific experience.
“My grandparents were always easily calmed just by holding their hand, and I think that’s what everyone that’s affected by dementia needs. Just a metaphorical hand holding in whatever way suits their needs.”