Andrea Brown

In memory of my mum Edna

Losing my Mum to dementia was one of the hardest journeys our family has ever faced. She passed away in December 2022, but in truth, we had been saying goodbye to her for several years.

Dementia is a cruel illness. It doesn’t just take away memories — it slowly changes the person you love. The mum we knew, who was full of warmth, laughter, and wisdom, gradually became someone who struggled to recognise us, to hold conversations, and to navigate even the simplest parts of daily life. Watching that decline was heartbreaking.

There were moments of confusion, frustration, and sadness, not just for her but for all of us. And yet, even in the hardest times, there were glimpses of her — a smile, a familiar phrase, a spark in her eyes and the odd Dean Martin song she would sing along with her dancing, well moving her feet to the beat  — that reminded us she was still there.

As a family, we did everything we could to support her, but dementia is relentless. It affects not only the person diagnosed but everyone around them. It’s emotionally exhausting, often isolating, and something so many families go through quietly.

Since losing Mum, we’ve wanted to do something meaningful in her memory. This page is part of that — a way to honour her life and to support others who are facing the same battle. By raising awareness and funds, we hope to contribute, even in a small way, to better care, support, and research for those living with dementia.

If you’re able to donate, thank you — it truly means a lot. And if you’ve experienced something similar, please know you’re not alone.

Mum, you are missed every day. Your love stays with us always.  Love all your family xxxx