A COUNTY Limerick man, who thought his life was over when he diagnosed with a progressive, degenerative illness, has been honoured for his outstanding contributions to the field of dementia advocacy at national and European level.
Broadford native Kevin Quaid is chairman of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland Dementia Working Group and he was presented with the Longford International College Presidential Award at a ceremony in Croke Park yesterday (Monday).
In addition to his work with the Alzheimer Society, Mr Quaid is the Vice-Chair of the Alzheimer European Working Group of People with Dementia and the founder of Lewy Body Ireland.
The 57 year-old father of three is also a published author, having written two books about his experiences with dementia.
The diagnosis of incurable Lewy Body Dementia – the same condition suffered by late US actor Robin Williams and former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher – came in 2017 just two years after he was told he had Parkinson’s disease.
Kevin’s doctor first sent him for testing when he started to experience extreme hallucinations and nightmares. He was waking in the middle of the night and wondering who wife Helena was.
He also told how he thought he was seeing people who weren’t there walking around the house.
Although he still struggles with hallucinations, sleep disorders, depression and cognitive problems, he has gone on to support others with the disease.
After discovering there was little or no information on it, Kevin decided to write a book to help fellow sufferers called ‘Lewy Body Dementia, Survival and Me’.
He went on to publish a second book,“I am Kevin not Lewy” which brings awareness, guidance and hope to people living with dementia.
After receiving his award in Croke Park yesterday, he said he was extremely grateful to his colleagues in the Alzheimer Society for their support in his advocacy work.
“I would not be here without them,” he added.
Dementia Working Group Advocacy Engagement Officer Saoirse Kelly said the award was a testament to Kevin’s tireless approach to dementia advocacy, and his commitment to ensuring the voices of those with dementia are not only heard but listened to.
“We appreciate Longford International College’s acknowledgement of Kevin’s outstanding contribution and recognition of the importance of dementia advocacy on the national and international stage”.
