By Marianne Sciucco, New York, US
Welcome to the AlzAuthors podcast, where we explore the power of collaboration and unity within the dementia community. In this episode, we’re joined by Gina Awad from Exeter, United Kingdom, who has channeled her passion for dementia care into valuable insights for caregivers. Her journey began at a young age, witnessing the impact of dementia on individuals in care homes, which fueled her dedication to the cause. Her background in health and social care, combined with her personal experiences, has led her to author the illustrated book “United: Caring for Our Loved Ones with Dementia,” providing caregivers with practical strategies and emotional support.
Key Takeaways
- Collaboration is essential in the dementia community to better serve those living with dementia and their families. By working together, we can learn from shared experiences and create a more significant impact.
- Involving individuals directly impacted by dementia in conversations and initiatives is crucial. The phrase “Not about us without us” emphasizes the importance of this inclusion.
- Resources like the Reading Well initiative and support groups are available to help care partners and those living with dementia navigate the emotional impact of the diagnosis and live fulfilling lives.
Key Topics
We discuss the challenges of competition in the field of dementia support, emphasizing the importance of working together to benefit those living with dementia and their families.
We also delve into the collaborative process behind the creation of “United.” Gina and her illustrator, the late Tony Husband, decided to join forces during COVID-19 lockdown to make a difference for people with dementia and their caregivers.
Throughout the episode, we explore the significance of involving individuals directly impacted by dementia in conversations and initiatives, as emphasized by the phrase “Not about us without us.” Gina shares a powerful story about a man with dementia trying to withdraw money from a bank, which led to an opportunity for her to educate bank staff about dementia and share the story in a local paper.
We also talk about the rich support groups available for care partners and those living with dementia, as well as the Reading Well initiative, which released a list of 20 books, including contributions from authors living with dementia, to be available in public libraries across England and Wales.
Join us as we explore the importance of collaboration, unity, and the sharing of experiences within the dementia community through Gina Awad’s work and insights.
Purchase “United: Caring for our loved ones living with dementia”
About Gina
Gina Awad was honoured in the Queen’s birthday list in June 2018 with a British Empire Medal for her voluntary services to people with Dementia in Devon. This accolade adds to her other 5 awards received locally, regionally, and nationally.
Gina founded and leads the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance (EDAA). EDAA empowers and inspires organizations and businesses to raise awareness and deliver dementia accessible services for people living with dementia and their families. Her vision believes every business and organization respects and values people living with dementia and their care partners/families and enables people with dementia to live independently and empowered to participate in their community.
Connect with Gina
Gina hosts a quarterly radio show on Phonic 106.8 FM ‘Living Better with Dementia’ with over 70 shows to tune into at your leisure: https://www.mixcloud.com/livingwithdementia/
About the Moderators
About the Podcast
AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others.
Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. Please subscribe so you don’t miss a word. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.
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Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.
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