Celebrating 5 years of Bringing Out Leaders in Dementia
The following people have all been part of the bold programme and are now part of the steering group advising on all aspects of the the bold Celebrations Event…
Anne-Marie Quinn
3 words to describe me: Intuitive, Sensitive, Creative
I’m a visual artist and currently run the Dolphin Arts Project in Ullapool in the north west Highlands, a programme of creative activity that supports people living with a diagnosis of dementia and their carers. Arts, crafts and poetry are used to engage imaginations, inspire practical activity and stimulate conversations. Weekly sessions contribute to heightened feelings of wellbeing and sustain social connections. I continue to learn so much about the positive impact that shared creative activity can have on people living with dementia. At a time when confidence and self-esteem can be low, the arts bring the possibility of expression and achievement – moments of pleasure that are life enhancing.
Mike Cheung
3 words to describe me: Gastronomic, Inspiring, Supportive
Mike was born in Hong Kong in 1949 and moved to Scotland in 1968 where he qualified as a biology teacher and taught for 36 years. Sadly Mike’s late wife passed away from breast cancer after 20 years together. After some time, he met and married his wife of 18 years. They have 4 children between them and are blessed with 2 precious grand daughters. When Mike was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s dementia his and his families lives fell apart. Mike says, “It actually coincided with me reading a book by Doddie Weir. who said if you cant beat them, then join them and do something with your new life. I thought that was the right thing for me to do.”
Mike was so impressed with Deepness and the way they were helping people with dementia that he became a member and joined the board. Deepness gave Mike a new lease of life, allowing him to feel that, “I’m not only living with dementia – but living a new and better life – my family agree.”
Alan Buick
3 words to describe me: Funny, Kind, Creative
We first found out about bold through Christine. At that time we were very private and quiet and she thought it would be good for us. It taught us to speak up for ourselves. With the bold programme and Dolphin Arts the laugh and enjoyment that you have together means so much.
Lil said herself and her husband Alan both really enjoyed the bold programme commenting, “Alan is getting a lot out of it, he loves to tell a story.”
Lil Buick
3 words to describe me: Creative, Caring, Courageous
I would recommend that people try the bold programme as I didn’t know how I would feel but I got so much out of it. I’ve been with Anne-Marie at Dolphin Arts in Ullapool since it began and I really enjoy it. For me personally I have to be creative.
Lil said herself and her husband Alan both really enjoyed the bold programme commenting, “bold is making me feel more confident in talking out about things.”
