Life doesn’t end when Alzheimer’s begins.
That’s what 63-year old Faye Forbes, formerly of Lunenburg, wants you to know.
She was diagnosed five years ago and says she’s living proof there’s life beyond the diagnosis.
“You can either roll over and let life pass you by and just wait for the end to come. Or you can embrace it and find the happiness and find the joy,” said Forbes.
Forbes stresses support from family, friends and the community is paramount to survival. She explained people need to keep an open mind about the disease and be patient.
“Smile and say, “It’s okay”, you know, “Take your time,”. The other thing they can do is say, “Is there something I can do to help you?,” as opposed to just jumping in,” said Forbes.
The diagnosis was a big shock for Forbes, who says she was living with Alzheimer’s for two years before they figured out what was wrong.
She says she’s made it her goal to inspire, educate and encourage people to change their perception and become a ‘Dementia Friend’.
She hopes attitudes will change and says not just those living with the disease need to keep an open mind.
For information on how to become a Dementia Friend, log onto this web site: http://www.dementiafriends.ca
