Diagnosed and it resonated with me and freed me from suffering

In 2022, I was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, at first, I was concerned about my wife’s reaction. I was worried whether our family’s life might be shattered or whether she would fall into despair.
On the other hand, regarding my work, especially in clerical tasks, things didn’t go well. I experienced the pain of working as unsuccessful salaryman for probably about ten years. However, neither I, nor those around me, nor my family ever suspected it might be dementia. So, when my doctor informed me of the diagnosis, I thought,“So this is the illness I have; no wonder I couldn’t do it. I wasn’t able to be in management.” In a way, I felt a sense of relief or liberation from the pain. 

Appointed as a Hokkaido Future Ambassador

In August 2024, I was appointed as a “Hokkaido Hope Ambassador for Dementia  (Ambassador for People with Dementia)” by Hokkaido. I participate in the branch training sessions and give lectures, conversed with other people living with dementia, and also contributed to the experience collection published by the branch last December. I am also scheduled to speak as a presenter at this year’s National Research Conference Symposium. 

Things I am look forward to and things I struggle with

I like watching YouTube on my PC every day, watching videos of other people with dementia, occasionally playing golf, and cooking my own meals.
Giving lectures as a Hokkaido Hope Ambassador, collecting business cards from people I meet on the spot, and later looking at the collected cards wondering, “Who is this?” are quite enjoyable. 

To all people living with dementia across the country ~ Let’s support each other ~

My symptoms are apparently mild. So, because there are times when things are completely, I can offer advice for people living with dementia who are in trouble, and I can also be an ally to them.
Instead, please help me out if I’m ever in trouble. 

Written by Kentaro Matsumoto
Translated by Satoshi Nakano