My Adelaide Fringe events My Unseen Disappearing World are in progress, two down, two to go as they say. They seem to have gone quite well, and last night we almost had a full house, which was incredibly humbling. There were people there, many who I had never met, many who I have known over the years, but sadly, some I did not remember at all. It is a strange thing, as I am still not used to not remembering, and say things like, I am so sorry I can’t remember you.  No-one minds, no-one gets upset or angry and they easily try to make the situation comfortable for me. But I still feel stupid, as well as incredibly surprised that I can’t remember people. It seems it is just not something I am getting used to yet.

Yesterdays presentation was different to the first night, partly because I lost my way in my notes a little towards the end, and we had a different musician, but also because the first night, we had major interference from the Fringe Bus, as it was using the same radio frequency as the venue, and every time they passed by outside, the conversation of the MC on the bus took over our speakers. It was initially disconcerting, but in reality very funny, almost like the show had dementia too, and I was glad my guardian Angel Sophia had given me the idea to print off a few of my more humorous blogs, which I used to overcome the interruptions (I know, you are saying, what funny blogs??!!).

Last night a new friend Wil (thanks Wil xo) recorded the show for me, so there is a record of it for posterity; perhaps I may add it to my blog some day. Recently I have been asked (via an interview and an email) what did I want to achieve by doing a Fringe event about dementia. I guess I would like to be one of the sparks that creates positive change; in attitudes and perceptions, in reducing the level of stigma; in reducing the many misunderstandings about dementia; changes in funding and policy; change for the treatment of people with dementia and their carers. Living with dementia is not a very positive experience for many people, and if in some small way I can help that to change, then the effort of speaking out will have been worth it. Hopefully one day I will also get used to not remembering. And to my family and friends who have been behind the scenes for this event, I love you and thank you for your unending support.