Having spent thirteen years in social services as a successful employment counsellor, Art Harrison of the West Kootenay region was prompted to make a change in his own career due to burnout. Recognizing the demand for IT support, he sought out education to deepen his understanding of technology but found himself encountering a roadblock while trying to pass an online Microsoft course. This unexpected challenge forced Art to confront the fact that something had changed so, in 2017 his doctor connected him with the UBC Brain Health Centre in Vancouver and in June 2019 he finally got answers in the form of a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
Art is one of many British Columbians affected by the disease who are joining the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and sharing their stories in January for Alzheimer’s Awareness Month to debunk stigmas associated with dementia.
While many people still believe a dementia diagnosis marks the end of a meaningful life, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is committed to flipping the script by shedding light on the extraordinary stories of people who have discovered unexpected joy, peace and happiness while navigating the challenges of the disease.
Art was no stranger to the disease when he received his diagnosis, having seen his mother and two brothers go through it before him. “It was a big hit, but it is what it is. There’s no changing it,” he says. Rather than succumbing to the weight of the diagnosis, Art chose to channel his resilience into his passions. “Everything has become more meaningful. Every relationship, every meal, seeing children or dogs or any kind of wildlife when we’re out walking.”
Having lost his job and having to come to terms with losing his driving privileges soon, Art is undeterred. He channels his resilience into his passions, writing a Substack blog with around a few dozen followers and aspiring to revive his connection to music from his days when playing guitar with his friends in a band.
Living with dementia presents unique challenges, but you’re not alone. The Alzheimer Society of B.C. offers a supportive community for people on this journey. Learn more about living with dementia.
Find community
Want to learn more about how people affected by dementia can stay engaged and connected? Tune into the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s January webinar series:
- Jan. 10 (2 to 3:30 p.m.): Jim Mann, an advocate living with dementia, will moderate a panel discussion with other community members living with the disease on living life to the fullest on the dementia journey.
- Jan. 24 (2 to 3:30 p.m.): Jana Schulz, a caregiver and registered social worker, will lead a panel discussion with other caregivers on the importance of finding a supportive community within the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s programs and services.
Everyone is invited! Learn more and register today.
Find support
If you have questions or concerns about dementia, call the First Link® Dementia Helpline, available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. in English (1-800-936-6033) and from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. in Cantonese or Mandarin (1-833-674-5007) and Punjabi (1-833-674-5003).