Many of you know I have done extensive research on the FTD disease. Even before diagnosis I was reading about signs and symptoms. When it was confirmed FTD, I scoured the internet for more understanding of why, how, what happens, and what can I do. I attended 2 conferences in San Diego and have participated in a few support groups based on the FTD disease.
Since it is taking my Mom's life, I want to know WHAT IT IS. I want to create more awareness in society, help others struggling through it, participate however I can in research and make a mission to find a cure. I'm drawn to this purpose.
Fortunately the 9th Annual FTD International conference is being held in Canada this year, close enough to travel to. I applied for a travel grant for caregivers and was awarded a generous amount of money. I'm still on the fence as to if I'll go as it's time away from work and a significant cost still.
But I wanted to share the link to the conference for anyone interested in learning more:
Also the link to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. This website is extremely helpful in learning more about the disease and the latest in research:
This video also shares another perspective on the disease - "It Is What It Is"
Additionally we have a local writer, Dan Browning, of the Star Tribune in Minneapolis that wrote a very personal and touching series on his wife's battle with FTD. She passed away this Spring at age 53. His blog is tough to read so prepare with kleenexes. I thank Dan for sharing his insight and giving more exposure to the disease.
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