“My name is Natalie. I am a devoted mother of two beautiful daughters and loving mischievous cats, who all mean the world to me. I am a former educator by profession. Aside from these important roles, I love to travel, when we aren’t in lockdown, as well as taking on different art projects in my spare time. I love to cook and make time to keep fit by doing lots of walking and attending my local gym.
“I am also an extensively involved Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate. A highlight of this experience for me has been participating in Priceline’s Sisterhood runway at Virgin Australia’s Melbourne Fashion Festival (2020). I was empowered to represent myself as an inspiring woman and role model for living with younger onset dementia to a sold-out audience.
“My dementia journey started in 2018. In early 2021 I was diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia by my speech pathologist as my speech was going through decline and I was experiencing many deficits.
However, despite all the challenges, which there are many, I still am, for now, able to rise above them and lead a fulfilling life.”
Thank you to Dementia Australia Advocate Natalie for sharing her story. Read more personal stories here.
We are here to help. If you need information or advice, please call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. The Helpline is available from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday excluding public holidays.