The
Granville A. Tugwell Alzheimer's
Foundation
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
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Imagine not recognizing your loved ones, not knowing how to get to familiar places, frequently misplacing essential items, not being able to communicate because you can’t find the words, or eventually losing the ability to manage your daily hygiene. These are only a few of the symptoms people with dementia face, and the disease typically progresses to additional and more acute stages.
Reports of the incidence of dementia in Jamaica are increasing. However, requisite support lags behind the growing needs of the population. The Granville A. Tugwell Foundation seeks to contribute to efforts to provide much-needed support to patients and their caregivers.
Granville Agustus Tugwell passed away on September 28, 2023, from complications due to dementia. The experiences and challenges Granville’s family faced as he battled the disease provided inspiration for establishing the Granville A. Tugwell Foundation.
Dementia Basics
Dementia is the overarching term for a set of conditions characterized by cognitive impairment, such as memory loss and difficulty with planning, problem-solving, and language. As a progressive disease, the condition worsens over time, eventually impacting independence and impairing normal everyday functioning.
There are several types of dementia, but the most common or recognized are:
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Alzheimer’s Disease
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Vascular Dementia
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Fronto-Temporal Dementia
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Lewy-Body Dementia
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Mixed Dementia
Alzheimer's accounts for the majority of dementia cases worldwide. However, in Jamaica, vascular dementia is the most common cause of dementia.
Whatever the form or stage, dementia takes a toll on the patient, caregiver, and loved ones. Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia. Still, it is important to know the risk factors and how to prepare if you or a loved one is diagnosed with the condition.
1 Thessalonians 4:13 - Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.
The day that robbed us of our dear Granville will not leave us mired in despair but will, instead, mark the birth of an enduring tribute in his name—and stand as a memorial to his generous and charitable spirit.