This week, one phrase fired me up. A new care home owner introduced herself the other day: "I'm not here to change the world." 

What?! In such a role there is only one thing to do! Do whatever it takes to shake things up and improve lives.  The vulnerable residents and their families deserve that level of courage and commitment.

I left that meeting frustrated beyond belief. I nearly cancelled my next appointment. But I’m so glad I didn't. One of the speakers on the panel of dementia experts proudly announced: “I’m a do-er. I’m here to change the world.” Music. To. My. Ears. Isn't that the point? If you're involved in the world of dementia — whether you're a carer, a care home owner, care home manager, care agent — your purpose is to make change happen. All of that pain that we are in contact with daily can be flipped.

Sure, there’s a lot we can’t control. It can feel like trying to fill a jug with a hole in the bottom. 
It can feel distressing and depressing. There is no cure. No clear timeline. Dementia just… does its thing.

And for someone like me — a self-confessed bossy-boots, ex-teacher control freak — that’s not been easy to accept. But dementia has taught me to let go of the things I can’t change, and to pour my energy into the things I can.

I’m lucky — I grew up with words like “wonderful,” “on, on,” and “you bet” echoing around me.
A constant reminder to stay positive, to keep going, and to grab every opportunity with both hands.

And the truth is, there’s still so much we can do:

• We can create moments of joy.
• We can learn as much as possible about dementia.
• We can connect with others who share our mindset.
• We can fundraise.
• We can speak in schools
• We can sing our hearts out
• We can challenge stigma.
• We can help people to let go — while still holding on to love.

A dear friend recently reminded me of the Serenity Prayer — words that feel especially relevant this week:

God grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change,
the courage to change the things we can,
and the wisdom to know the difference.

So let this be our reminder:
Be bold. Change the world.
With love,
x

September is World Alzheimer's Month and we're inspired by the many discussions about dementia  taking place across all platforms currently.
Fear-free we must face dementia.
Turn towards, not away.

This is the heartfelt message underlined by the brilliant actress Anne-Marie Duff, as expressed on The Today programme, this morning: listen to the short clip- from around 2.40.

When my own mum's dementia began to unravel her, my main instinct was to tell as many people as possible that she had dementia. I craved information, hope and empathy from others. This was the only way I was going to be handed the tools for the essential armour required for us both to cope with this demanding landscape.

Keep telling each other. No stigma, no fear. It's the only way to shift society's approach to dementia and support and remind each other how to pan for those short but oh so sweet nuggets of joy that keep everyone going.