‘Of course I forgot. But that’s okay, that’s who I am’

[00:08]
My name is Helen Rochford-Brennan, and I live with Alzheimer's disease. It's amazing how misunderstood we are — what we can or can’t do, or who we are. Why? I am me. I've had a really great, great life. I became involved in communities, working to promote the rights of all people. We are all equal — and that's important to me, to this day. That's equality for all. I became very active in the community here in Tobercurry, where I live, became involved regionally, and I'm also a political activist.
[00:52]
I think I must keep doing that. I must keep doing it to be the person I am today. I was fortunate that Trinity College was looking for people with Alzheimer's to take part in research. It was just so much fun to meet people — laughing and able to talk about their illness. I remember one of them saying to me, “Imagine if somebody came in here — they’d think there was nothing wrong with us.” And that is true. I can honestly say that was where my journey into light began. It showed me what to do — whether it was
[01:28]
labelling the light switch, keeping a whiteboard, or writing a diary. And today, I manage my life with Alexa.
Alexa: I missed something. Can you say it again?
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland asked me if I would speak publicly about it — and so I did. And it was like a tsunami. Each media appearance I did brought… I think it brought new hope to people. And I got such wonderful messages. There was so much fight in me to change things, and I was in a hurry. All that has changed is that I have a short-term memory problem.
[02:18]
Of course I forget. But that’s okay. That’s who I am. That’s the person that I am — that hasn’t changed at all. My passion for rights, for my rose garden, for the things I believe in and the things I love. Getting out and going off in my car, walking my dog, or just enjoying my life.
That’s Helen.