Living Well with Dementia - Fran’s Story | Fighting Dementia Podcast Ep 3

Fran’s journey, as shared in this episode of *Fighting Dementia Podcast*, is a powerful testament to resilience. Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia in her mid-50s, Fran, a former nurse in high-pressure environments, faces her condition with unwavering strength.

Despite the challenges, Fran’s determination to live a meaningful life shines through. She openly shares her journey from diagnosis to acceptance and has become a passionate advocate for dementia awareness. Her work with the Dementia Action Alliance and the young onset dementia group at Sedgemoor demonstrates her commitment to supporting others. Through talks and community involvement, Fran educates healthcare professionals and reshapes perceptions of dementia.

Her story reveals the everyday struggles of dementia, from losing items to facing misconceptions, but Fran’s humor and perseverance offer a message of hope. This inspiring account underscores the need for greater societal awareness and support for those with dementia, showing how one’s impact can remain strong, even as memories fade.

Resources in this episode:

Dementia Action Alliance
Fran mentions meeting Leon here and describes it as a key support and advocacy community for people with dementia.
Link: https://www.dementiaaction.org.uk/
Liverpool Royal Hospital (Royal Liverpool University Hospital)
Fran gives talks here to raise awareness for dementia among healthcare professionals.
Link: https://www.liverpoolft.nhs.uk/royal-...
Mossley Hill Hospital
This is where Fran was referred for assessments related to her diagnosis.
Note: Mossley Hill Hospital is part of Liverpool and Sefton Health Partnership, but as of 2023, the hospital’s psychiatric services were being moved.
Link: https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/our-ser...
Sedgemoor Care Centre, Norris Green
Fran goes to a dementia group here, specifically mentioning support for young onset dementia.
(NHS Sedgemoor Centre, Norris Green, Liverpool)
Local council info page
Alzheimer’s Society
Implied as "Alzheimer’s people," with mention of support, diagnosis, information, and medication.
Link: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/
A few additional mentions (not formal resources but may be useful):

Young Onset Dementia Support Groups

Fran emphasizes the importance of joining age-appropriate support groups. The Alzheimer’s Society page above also lists local group finders.
Healthcare professionals and dementia specialist nurses


00:00:02 Introduction to the Podcast
00:00:07 Welcome and Introduction of Guests
00:00:21 Fran's Diagnostic Journey
00:00:46 Initial Symptoms and Misdiagnosis
00:02:56 Signs of Change and Seeking Help
00:04:36 Challenges at Work
00:06:27 Medical Tests and Uncertainty
00:07:57 Frustrations with the Medical System
00:08:19 Pursuing a Diagnosis
00:10:36 Receiving the Diagnosis
00:12:44 Impact of Diagnosis on Life
00:14:41 Community Support and Awareness
00:17:17 Physical and Mental Challenges
00:19:23 Advocacy and Positivity
00:23:09 Lack of Understanding of Dementia
00:24:41 The Need for a Strategy in Dementia Care
00:26:41 Stigma and Fear around Dementia
00:28:11 Educating Healthcare Professionals