Terry Pratchett Diagnosed With Alzheimer's: Overlooking the Best Source of Information?

Bert Piedmont at Had A Dad writes that one of her favorite authors, Terry Pratchett, has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's. His doctors had originally diagnosed him with stroke.

In his note to fans, Mr. Pratchett seems optimistic. But the last sentence of his note caught my eye:

I know it's a very human thing to say "Is there anything I can do", but in this case I would only entertain offers from very high-end experts in brain chemistry.

I can't imagine how horrible he must feel. But there's a group of people who can. If Mr. Pratchett were to contact members of DementiaUSA, DASNI and forMemory, he would find the ultimate experts in living with early stage dementias. They have ideas about staying engaged in life, managing symptoms, and yes, even brain chemistry. Don't you think he's missing out on the best source of information?

Comments

[Sharon]

After going to the author's 'blog' and reading his whole statement, I think he is being somewhat 'playful'...for lack of a better word, when he stated he only wants to hear from 'very high experts in brain chemistry'. Keeping it 'light' as he puts it. He says at least twice that he's not dead or it's not over yet.

I remember when I was first diagnosed with FTD this year & got all the sad looks, offers of condolences, etc. It was very touching, but also very overwhelming. I just wanted to be 'normal' again. I had to go off line for awhile. Of course, we all know that it is great to have the connection with others with early onset dementia, but I think he'll have to come to terms with the diagnosis first.

Sharon in KS