About
Stuart lives with his wife in West Lothian, Scotland and was medically retired after spending 36 years working with the Prison and Police Services. He was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's in January 2022 at the age of 58.
Through attending the local Alzheimer Scotland resource centre, Stuart joined the Scottish Dementia Working Group (SDWG) in November 2022. This has given him back a focus and a purpose which he feels was lost when he retired. He approaches his involvement with the same dedication as a job, whether it's preparing for or attending meetings, or offering insights to health professionals.
He is involved in a wide variety of work with the SDWG, including research activities, developing dementia related supports, and communication projects. He has also taken part in many studies and research opportunities in relation to dementia.
Whilst recognising that no two people with dementia are the same, Stuart insists that although his life has certainly changed following his diagnosis, it is definitely not over. He presently lives well with dementia, enjoying activities such as going to the gym and carrying out DIY. He demonstrates that having a dementia diagnosis doesn’t necessarily preclude the ability to go travelling. His strong faith immensely helps him.
Stuart is not one for shying away from conversations about dementia, and feels it is important to change perceptions and reduce the associated stigma.