Co Down man's Alzheimer’s mission after dad's death following misdiagnosis

A Co Down man has taken on a gruelling challenge, to take place next month, in memory of his father who died after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.

Martin Savage, a proud Portaferry man, lived with Alzheimer’s for several years. He passed away at home, age 74, on Thursday November 14.

In just a few weeks, Martin's son will take on the Malaga Marathon in aid of Alzheimer’s Society, a charity close to the Savage family's hearts. Speaking to Belfast Live, Maurice explained how his father was initially diagnosed with anxiety and depression.

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"My dad was initially misdiagnosed with anxiety and depression and it was a long tough process to receive his correct diagnosis." he said.

"I think an early diagnosis is crucial. My dad changed with his diagnosis - in a positive way, and these fundraisers are important in supporting that early diagnosis work. This fundraising was planned before my dad’s passing and now i’m more determined to raise money and awareness in his memory.

"My legend of a dad had been living with the terrible illness for several years and I couldn’t be prouder of how he dealt with everything. It was a frustratingly long process for him to receive his Alzheimer’s diagnosis with various misdiagnosis along the way, even though he had all the typical signs and behaviours."

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Dementia is the name for a set of symptoms that includes memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Dementia develops when the brain is damaged by diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a physical disease that affects the brain. It is named after Alois Alzheimer, the doctor who first described it.

The Alzheimer’s Society is made up of people with dementia, carers, trusted experts, campaigners, researchers and clinicians.

A spokesperson said: "We are the UK’s largest collective force of people with unparalleled knowledge and over 40 years of experience addressing the biggest challenges facing people living with dementia.

"At Alzheimer’s Society we’re working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives. We do this by giving help to those living with dementia today, and providing hope for the future."

Maurice said his fundraiser, which has raised over £1,100 so far, and other efforts to raise money, are vital in allowing the charity to help people with Alzheimer's to continue to have good times.

"Some of this money raised will go towards helping people receive their diagnosis quicker," he added.

"Some will go towards much needed care and support after diagnosis. Disappointingly, there is only limited support available. Alzheimer’s is a truly awful disease, and one day there will be a cure. Until then, these fundraisers are needed to help and support people like my dad.

"My dad always loved hearing about my races and loved getting my medal afterwards so running a marathon was always the best fundraising option for the best dad."

Please click this link to donate in memory of Martin Savage. You can find out more details on the Alzheimer's Society, on their website here.

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