In the conclusion of Forget Memory, I dream of a time when advocates with/for dementia create a movement like “Act-Up” that insists on humane treatment and financing of care and research. This past Sunday, a New York Times article pointed out a similar movement starting to happen with mental illness. Can my dream be far behind?
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Anne,
Thanks for pointing out the NY Times story. I noticed that Alzheimer’s is mentioned as the disease where “patients” should NOT have choices. Hmmm…
Maybe a dementia pride movement requires inspiration. How about yet another Alzheimer’s novel/movie – this time about a person with dementia who rejects the victim stereotype and lives a full life, despite cognitive challenges.
We watched Rory O’Shea Was Here last night – a movie about a man with cerebral palsy who leaves a “home for the disabled” to find freedom and dignity. OK, maybe the ending is predictable and it’s a bit overwrought in parts, but it makes you think about the “personhood” of people with all kinds of disabilities.
Mona Johnson
The Tangled Neuron