He’s not letting Alzheimer’s rule his life

TV presenter Davina McCall has spoken about her father’s life with dementia

She’s known for her sunny disposition and it seems that this positive mental attitude is one that TV presenter Davina McCall shares with her dad Andrew, 74.

For despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2015, Andrew is, says Davina, a total inspiration to her. ‘Yes, it’s getting worse and his short-term memory is much worse than it was a couple of years ago. But his positive mental attitude is absolutely key,’ she revealed last week. ‘He is still Andrew. He’s still out there; he’s still having a good time. He’s not letting it rule his life.’

Andrew, a graphic designer, also insists that his family remain open and honest about his condition, Davina explained. ‘He tells everybody: ‘Hi, I’m Andrew, I’ve got Alzheimer’s.’ He’s such an inspiration, and I hope he can be for other people too.’

This isn’t the first- time dementia has impacted on Davina’s family. Her paternal grandmother Pippy, who cared for Davina as a young child, also has dementia. But whilst Davina admits that her dad’s diagnosis was ‘terribly frightening’ she is determined to stay as positive as possible, just like him. ‘I look at my Dad and I see such hope,’ she adds. ‘And each hurdle we’ll cross when we get to it.’

We have a feeling Davina may have inherited her refreshingly positive approach to life from her dad. Let’s hope it’s one that will help sustain them both on their dementia journey.