When Andy was diagnosed with young onset dementia in his early 50s, it felt like a door was suddenly slammed shut. The life he'd imagined with his partner Christine was going to look very different.

For months after his diagnosis, Andy withdrew from the world. He felt that he had no future. But over time, with the support of Christine and their dementia specialist Admiral Nurse, Andy found a purpose again. Through sporting events, campaigning and raising awareness, he wants people to see that people with dementia can still live full lives. 

This episode contained a reference to suicidal ideation and other themes relating to mental health. If this has caused you distress, free mental health support is available from Mind. You can call their confidential Infoline on 0300 123 3393. 

Further resources:  

• Find out more about Dementia UK and the life-changing support of Admiral Nurses  
• Access information and resources about young onset dementia, where symptoms develop before the age of 65 
• Learn more about employment and young onset dementia 
• Read personal stories from people living with a diagnosis, their family members and friends 

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