However important this person was I couldn’t let his use of the term ‘suffering’ go unchallenged

Having just spent the last two days in London, at the Alzheimer’s Society conference, I’ve returned home tired. This year’s conference was informative and engaging. I myself had the opportunity to showcase the Mr Alzheimer’s school project, giving away books to presenters, TV presenters, celebrities. But one person ended up going home with not just a book, but a better understanding of the language to avoid when addressingh a packed auditorium. I happened to be at the back of the audiotorium, and was listening intently to what was being said. And a few minutes into this gentleman’s speech, he referred to people ‘suffering’ from dementia. Well, I saw red, but I decided to let this comment go, as it was in connection to the person’s famiy. I was hoping this would be a one-off mistake, so settled back into my seat to enjoy the rest of the speech. But moments later, the phrase was used again. No way could I sit in silence. How many more times would this unhelpful terminology be used? I briskly walked to the front, with my bright yellow ‘I want to speak, please’ card in my hand. I managed to get to the stage before an arm appeared around me and I was escorted away. But if the powers-that-be thought I was going to exit quietly, they were wrong. I had a point to make, and I was going to make it. My dementia doesn’t enable me to remember much of the encounter, but I know I pointed out that however important this person was, why should his comments go unchallenged? I know from previous experience that people in high places make a very quick exit after their speeches, and the chance of any dialogue is small. But on this occasion, those of us affected by dementia won the day. Some people will have viewed my action as disrespectul, or even rude, but at the risk of being labelled a troublemaker, I will continue to be an activist and a voice that brings about change and a more empathic society. And if that means approaching the Health Secretary, as it did on this occasion, then bring it on. I must just say, the gentleman (whose name I can’t remember) didn’t disappear out of a back door. No, he asked to meet with me, and we had a splendid conversation. He was very apologetic about his use of language, and even promised to investigate how we may be able to roll out the Mr Alzheimer’s school project across the country. I don’t see this as a result for me, Dr Watson. No, it’s a result for those affected by dementia, and those who may be affected in the future. I think this MP got the message that it’s everyone’s responsibility to promote positivity, and the language we use plays an important part. I can’t wait for next year’s conference.