Reading Terry's thread about her upcoming talk caused me to reflect on my situation. Several years post-dx, I was asked by our local Alz Assn chapter to start talking about our "story"-- I think the timing of it was a big factor. We came along just when they started emphasizing EOAD and early-stage programming in general. Over the last several years, I've testified before Congress, given talks with and without Steve to local groups, been interviewed for newspaper articles, etc.
If someone had told me years ago that I'd do these things, I would have said they were crazy! What could possibly be harder than to "spill your guts" about the tragic illness of the person you most care about on the face of the earth? And of course, I try to constantly keep my emotions in check while I'm speaking because I don't want to break down and cry in public.
As hard as it is, speaking publicly about AD has helped me accept the situation; given more of a purpose to my life as a caregiver. I would encourage anyone reading these boards to become active with your local Alz Assn chapter and seek out opportunities in general where you can educate others about the disease. I've been told numerous times by attendees at professional conferences that the real-life stories were the best part of the day's presentations.
For too many years, dementia was either considered automatic for the elderly or a taboo subject. Those of us whose lives have been forever changed by it can be the most effective advocates and educators.