Behind the Scene - Demystifying Dementia Writing Journey

​Do you know that heart breaking feeling when you witness loved ones around you losing themselves in front of you and you felt lost not knowing how to help them?
 
Years ago, I had the opportunity to work at an Aged Care facility and supported many residents living with dementia. I have special bonding with every one of them. It broke my heart watching how the disease take them away bit by bit, day by day, and all I can do at that late stage was to bring them some sunshine and love. This brought back memories of my grandma. We lost her to dementia.
 
I knew deep in my heart that we can help them navigate the journey better and still live well for the years, months or days they have got left.
 
So I decided to write Demystifying Dementia to send a message that if we can do something right now, then please don’t leave it till later.
I want to help people understand dementia better and in simple English. My hope is to contribute to a dementia friendly nation.
 
The writing journey was filled with tears as I recollect memories of grandma and the people I have supported. It was an extremely emotional ride especially when I was writing Chapter 2. I have wanted to make the first printed book as a present for my dad and so I set a target to complete one chapter a week. This was a meaningful motivation I have created for myself.
 
There were many challenges along the way and I found myself constantly going back to my biggest WHY I wanted to write this book. I was very clear with my WHY. This always helps bring me back on course whenever I was losing focus. It was great to have my writing mentor and coach Jane Turner to guide me along. She was the biggest support that helped me push through the last mile to the finishing line, and having my book published late last year, in time to be the Christmas present for my dad. Jane was the “mid-wife” for the birth of my “baby” (book)! Yes, I joke about the experience of writing a book is like pregnancy and labour.
 
Okay, jokes aside, having published a book instantly raised my profile and made me the expert in what I do and how I help others. I have been approached to be the guest speaker for brain health related topics for different groups. I have also been interviewed on different radio shows across Australia. The book has created awareness and publicity for my business. It has also brought on collaboration opportunities. I feel very grateful to have written Demystifying Dementia and to be able to start donating the book to people/families who need the information and support.

I have planned a book launch in early April this year to promote the book but due to the COVID-19 lockdown, the book launch was cancelled. I now only do online speaking events or webinars.
 
If you are writing a book or thinking to write a book, START with your biggest WHY, STAY with your biggest WHY and STOP being a perfectionist, focus on the content, leave the editing to the editor.
 
With much love,
Shannon