…By Larry John for TDPel Media.
Rianna Patterson, a 25-year-old woman from south London, has founded the Dominica Dementia Foundation with the aim of providing support and financial assistance to individuals affected by dementia.
Inspired by the memory of her grandfather, Terry Vidal, who passed away from dementia in 2013, Patterson established the foundation in 2016 at the age of 18.
She felt compelled to alleviate the impact of dementia on both patients and their families, using her personal experience as a driving force.
Honored by Queen Elizabeth II:
Within a year of creating the foundation, Rianna Patterson had the opportunity to meet Queen Elizabeth II, who recognized her efforts by presenting her with a Queen’s Young Leaders Award.
Patterson described the experience as humbling and expressed gratitude for the recognition from the Queen.
This acknowledgement highlighted the importance of the work being done by the foundation and encouraged Patterson to continue her efforts.
Advocating for Dementia Research:
Patterson emphasizes the need for increased involvement in dementia research to ensure that treatments are effective for everyone affected by the condition.
She believes that researchers should make information more accessible and understandable to families and communities.
By doing so, the impact of dementia can be addressed not only for those living with the condition but also for their loved ones and caregivers.
With her ambition to become a researcher, Patterson intends to leverage her knowledge and personal experience to contribute to the betterment of communities.
The Global Challenge of Dementia:
Dementia is a global issue affecting approximately 55 million people, and this number is projected to reach 139 million by 2050 if effective treatments are not developed, according to Alzheimer’s Disease International.
Rianna Patterson’s dedication to supporting dementia patients is particularly significant in the face of this growing challenge.
Collaboration with the Clinical Research Network:
Currently, Patterson is collaborating with the Clinical Research Network’s south London inclusivity panel, which is part of the National Institute for Health and Care Research.
The Inclusivity Panel, affiliated with Guy’s and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, aims to promote diversity and inclusivity in research.
Chifundo Stubbs, the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Lead for the Clinical Research Network in south London, expressed delight in working with Patterson and praised her as an inspiring young woman making a difference in memory of her grandfather.
Conclusion:
Rianna Patterson’s establishment of the Dominica Dementia Foundation demonstrates her commitment to assisting individuals affected by dementia, driven by her personal experience with her late grandfather.
Through her foundation, she aims to provide support and financial aid to dementia patients and their families.
Patterson’s desire to contribute to dementia research and make information more accessible underscores the importance of addressing the impact of dementia on a broader scale.
Her collaboration with the Clinical Research Network’s south London inclusivity panel further emphasizes her dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of those affected by this condition.