A few weeks ago I had an exciting message from Lori La Bey from Dementia Map© Global Resource Directory. Lori's mum was diagnosed with early onset dementia when she was still only in her fifties. Lori decided to take action, and set up an organisation to help people who care for dementia sufferers. That was thirty years ago. Dementia Map is now a unique tool in today’s dementia community and is dedicated to connecting those who care for individuals living with dementia and those diagnosed, with the many valuable and critically helpful resources needed by countless families around the world.
Lori had heard about my book, It's Raining in Moscow and I Forgot my Umbrella, and
wanted to learn why I wrote a children's book featuring characters with different types of dementia. I explained about my own children's reactions to my mother-in-law's dementia and how we, as a family, tried to make the best of a horrible condition. I also told her about some of the incredible and fascinating people we met on the dementia floor of the care home. It was these characters who inspired me to write the book.
It's Raining in Moscow and I Forgot my Umbrella was written to raise awareness of dementia and to show that it's not something to be afraid of. In fact, as I say in the interview with Lori, to have known someone with dementia is a gift. I learnt so much from all the people in the care home, and my children have learnt understanding and empathy. The book was intended for children, but adults have said how much it fondly reminded them of friends or family members with the condition.
The show went on air last week and is now available to watch on YouTube by clicking this link. Even if you don't want to hear me banging on about my experiences, I would recommend you listen to Lori. She has some good suggestions and valuable advice. Her website can be found here. If you can manage 3 minutes of listening time, go to 29.30 (here) where I talk about the book. If you can only manage 1 minute, go to 32.30(here) especially if you make films - Lori has vision!
If you haven't read my book yet, please give it a go. I've nearly finished the sequel and you need to have read the first one to appreciate the second! You can buy it here on Amazon, or if you'd like a signed copy, just contact me by clicking here.
If you enjoy my blogs you'll definitely enjoy the book - it's even better than the blogs!
PS Any guesses where I was last week? (see photo).
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Can't wait to read the sequel! Really looking forward to it. Will I, as in Neelam, be featuring in it again? 🤗