If Memory Serves Me Wrong: A Memoir of Theatre, Love and Loss to Early-onset Alzheimer's

In his twenties, Ronan Smith's father, Brendan Smith, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease and refused to acknowledge it. Ronan, a theatre and film actor, became a producer and manager and part of Riverdance. When Ronan was diagnosed with the same illness in 2014, he chose to face his future positively, turning from work towards family, improving his diet, and advocating for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. His memoir, If Memory Serves Me Wrong, is a rare first-hand account of being a family carer and living with dementia, highlighting the power of love in facing an uncertain future.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 256 pages
\n Publication date: 11 June 2021
\n Publisher: New Island Books
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Ronan Smith's father, Brendan Smith, was a prominent theatre impresario in his twenties, displaying early signs of early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Despite his denial, Brendan ran the Olympia Theatre, founded the Brendan Smith Academy of Acting, and established the Dublin Theatre Festival. Ronan, a theatre and film actor, later became a producer and manager, contributing to the global phenomenon of Riverdance. As Brendan's condition worsened, Ronan took on the responsibility of protecting his father and eventually, when it became necessary, committed him to care. This traumatic event shaped their father-son relationship profoundly.

In 2014, when Ronan received his own Alzheimer's diagnosis, he faced the future with resilience and positivity. Unlike his father, Ronan chose to prioritize his family, improve his diet, and actively advocate for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. His unique approach to dementia has significantly shifted the narrative in Ireland, offering hope and support to those affected by the disease.

Written in real-time, If Memory Serves Me Wrong is a rare and intimate account of being both a family carer and a person living with dementia. It explores the emotional journey of facing an uncertain future while highlighting the unwavering power of love in navigating the challenges. Ronan's memoir is filled with heart-rending moments, moments of humor, and profound insights into the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.

\n Weight: 292g\n
Dimension: 138 x 214 x 23 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781848408074\n \n