‘Lewy Body Dementia Survival and Me’ - the book launch

A GREAT crowd of friends, relatives and neighbours turned up at the Park Bar, Kanturk on Monday night for the launch of the book entitled ‘Lewy Body Dementia Survival and Me’ written by Kevin Quaid, who lives in Kileenleagh, Kanturk.

It’s the story of Kevin’s life after being diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia when he was 53 years of age, having been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease two years earlier. The story of the book takes a look at his life, the highs and lows and sometimes his struggle with life itself.

The book was launched by Michael Moynihan TD, who spoke of the many meetings with Kevin during the preparing and putting together the project that Kevin was undertaking. This is the first time that there is a book written by someone who is suffering from the disease.

He spoke of the bravery of Kevin letting everyone know all that is being experienced by the sufferer. This is a great insight and it will help family members, carers and the public understand what the many problems are encountered.

There were a number of guest speakers from Dementia Ireland, the Altzheimers Association and from caring centres on the night, as well as Kevin’s family.

There were a great number of the books purchased on the night and now the book is available from many outlets throughout Ireland. It is hoped the sale of the book will benefit all those affected by dementia, Parkinsons Disease and Altzheimers.

The night was MC’d by Kevin’s great friend Jim Guiney and it was decided that while all of Kevin’s family and friends were present that they would take the opportunity to do ‘ This is Your Life’ presentation for Kevin. There was a great number of stories and tales from Kevin’s life before his diagnosis of dementia.

From the tone of all the stories from his friends, Kevin was a very funny, fun loving, full of life character.

There were many tales of travelling to many race meetings throughout Ireland along with Jim and his friends that were fondly known as ‘ The Rat Pack’. These outings led to many a strange encounters that were very much enjoyed by all.

The night concluded with refreshments and a big thank you from Kevin to all who turned up on the night.

Kevin Quaid with his wife Helena at the launch of his book Lewy Body Dementia Survival and Me at the Park Bar, Kanturk. Photos by Sheila Fitzgerald

Kevin Quaid pictured at the launch of his Book at the Park Bar, Kanturk, with his wife Helena, and family members Holly Quaid, Michelle O’Connell, Pat Quaid, Noreen Quaid and Kevin Quaid Jnr.

Kevin Quaid pictured at the launch of his Book at the Park Bar, Kanturk, with his wife Helena, Christine O’Regan, Crystal Project, Amy Murphy, Alzheimer’s Society dementia advisor, Nisha Joy, Person in charge, Carebright Community; Colette Ryan,...