Andy, from near Bolton, was diagnosed with young onset dementia in 2021 – the same year as Birds of a Feather star Pauline Quirke – after his partner Christine noticed some worrying signs
A man revealed he initially shrugged off symptoms before receiving a life-changing diagnosis of young onset dementia at just 52, around the same time Birds of a Feather star Pauline Quirke was diagnosed with the condition. Andy says his partner Christine, a nurse by profession, spotted the early warning signs.
Recounting his journey on the ‘My Life with Dementia’ podcast, the ex-army cadet instructor remarked: “Christine asked me to go to see the doctors because I was getting forgetful and I just laughed it off and went ‘ah you’re alright, I don’t need to go’ and she carried on, and on and on.”
Andy admitted noticing lapses in his memory, prompting him to get checked. He said: “I noticed I was forgetting things, like important things, and I thought you know what I am going to go to the doctors just to show up.”
After undergoing blood tests and later verbal tests he believed he had done well in – yet in reality did poorly – he spoke about his expectations for the visit. Andy continued: “I was going to be told by the doctor that I was just forgetful or I needed to take multivitamins or go away and stop being an idiot.” But as significant symptoms emerged, including increased clumsiness, Christine’s healthcare background led her to anticipate a harrowing outcome, reports Bristol Live.
She explained: “My initial thoughts were for something else going on. As the forgetfulness got a bit worse and other symptoms like becoming more clumsy and things, then I was thinking it was quite possible. Obviously hoping that you are wrong and it is something reversible but I wasn’t surprised when he failed the initial tests at the doctors. Then when he was referred on to the memory assessment team I wasn’t overly shocked when they said they think it was dementia.”
Her partner Andy felt “devastated” following the life-changing diagnosis, unable to accept the drastic change to his future with his wife. The shock sparked a period of anger and a struggle with alcohol for him before sports and support helped him rediscover meaning in life.
Discussing the immediate impact of the news, Andy revealed: “I was too young… I was 52. I was healthy, I ate well, and didn’t smoke. I asked what I did to deserve it – is it my fault? I’m finally happy, in a good strong relationship, good job, nice house. I didn’t know anything about dementia, didn’t have a clue, like I said I was just overcome with anger and rage.”
Now working closely with dementia specialist Admiral Nurse, Andy has come to terms with his condition. Through advocacy and education, he emphasises that embracing positivity can contribute to slowing the progression of dementia, versus the detrimental effects of negativity.
The sports enthusiast, who has been participating in iron man challenges, triathlons and marathons from a young age, uses sport to maintain his mental health. He wants to “prove a point that I am Andy with dementia, I am not dementia, I am still me, I am still Andy”.
He further added: “Sports has become a big release for me, especially swimming. I cannot believe I am saying this because I used to hate swimming, but swimming is now the only sport I can do without a guide. Once I get in the water I can’t trip over. I can get away from anything. I used to sing to myself as I was swimming, now I don’t, I don’t even count the strokes. I literally just shut off and I can get out of the water after having a bad day and it is like I am a new me.”
The subject of dementia has gained attention since Pauline Quirke’s husband gave a heartbreaking update about her deteriorating condition. He disclosed that the Broadchurch star had withdrawn from the public eye and her colleague Maurice Gray stated her condition “had progressed”.
The NHS indicates early symptoms of dementia include memory loss, difficulty concentrating and struggling with familiar tasks, something Andy experienced with his sudden clumsiness. Other symptoms encompass difficulty following a conversation, confusion about time and place, and mood changes.
If you or someone you care about has concerns about potential dementia, more information can be found on the NHS website or you can arrange a consultation with your GP.