There's A Dog In The Garden

Alison Shaw lives in Auckland, New Zealand. She is a wife, mother and grandmother. She spent a number of years in education and latterly has been employed by the Salvation Army in Senior Services.

Alison knew very little about Lewy Body Dementia until her mother's diagnosis. Her parents were living with her at this time, and she saw first-hand the onset of this illness and the effect it had not only her mother, but also on the extended family.

Alison writes very honestly about her experiences, describing the struggles and heartache associated with this illness. She also shares both her positive and negative encounters with the different models of care her mother received.

Alison is passionate to educate and enlighten people about Lewy Body Dementia. It is her hope that this book will help to dispel some of the stigma associated with dementia and stimulate new conversations about this rapidly growing illness affecting so many of our older population.

Contributors

Peter Shaw –
Peter Shaw, Alison's husband, has written a chapter in the book 'Reflections of a Spouse'. Peter has worked in Media for many years, is a proud Dad and Poppa and a keen gardener.

He writes from his perspective about the impact that this disease had on their family life and relationships. His insightful observations and practical examples will be of assistance to those living with a spouse who is navigating this challenging journey.

Peter came to appreciate that his role as a husband was different to that of Alison's, in that it was primarily a support role for her more than anything else.

Elizabeth Dove –
Elizabeth (Libbee) Dove, Alison's daughter, has written a chapter in the book 'Reflections of a Granddaughter'.

Libbee is married and a mum to three young children. She shares from her perspective, memories of her Grandmother and the changes and challenges this illness brought about for her.

Her insights demonstrate the positive effect children can bring into the lives of those with dementia and how important it is to be 'present' even when it's personally challenging.

Libbee writes that her Grandmother's illness left her with a legacy of greater compassion for other families who are struggling with loved ones with mental health issues.

Tina Chivers –
Tina is the Manager of a Specialist Dementia Care Home in Massey, West Auckland. Alison's mother was in her care for the last 18 months of her life.

Tina has devoted many years of her life to caring for those living with the many and varied forms of dementia. She encouraged Alison to write her story describing what dementia looked like in the reality of everyday life. She believed this would be a valuable resource for family members and those working in the health sector.

Tina’s chapter gives a clinical outline of Lewy Body Dementia with practical explanations and examples of care that she has implemented in her many years of working in this field.