Beyond the darkness of dementia

<p><em style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>Beyond the darkness of dementia </em><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>creates a forum for family members and support providers to share in stories of hope inspiration and reflection along with an opportunity for growth and celebration. To bring to the fore an honest and open dialogue that paves the way for what lies ahead a path often shrouded in mystery and navigated on one's own. </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>The messages woven throughout reassure all those impacted by dementia that the path need not be as daunting and more importantly they are not alone. Through valuable contributions and insights from those who walk ahead or have passed through before there is an acknowledgement of the challenges faced and the celebration of special moments that often go unnoticed. By ensuring families feel more supported and acknowledged there is an assurance that tomorrow has the potential to be just that bit brighter.</span></p><p><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>Families will be better placed in ... </span></p><p><br></p><ul><li>Planning for the future while living for today </li><li>Communicating on a whole new level</li><li>Understanding dementia from a new perspective </li><li>Taking care of and looking out for themselves</li><li>Creating better opportunities for collaboration and connection</li></ul><p><br></p><p><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>Wendy Hall is the Director of Dementia Doulas International and has worked extensively within the health and aged care sectors.  Her career has spanned over 25 years as a Registered Nurse Paramedic and Dementia Educator. As the author of </span><em style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>Dementia can't take everything!</em><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)> and </span><em style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)>The Dementia Doula</em><span style=color: rgba(0 0 0 1)> she credits those living with and supporting someone with dementia for continuing to share their stories and experiences. There is no greater learning than from those who have walked the path. </span></p>