Challenging Memory Loss Stigma: Sam Simon's Story of Advocacy & Resilience | Living Our Best (S3 E5)

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 5 of "Living Our Best with Memory Loss"! In this powerful episode, hosts Bob, Lori, Denis, and SuAnne are joined by the inspiring Sam and Susan Simon.

Sam and Susan share their remarkable journey, beginning with Susan's breast cancer diagnosis in 2000. Sam, her caregiver, channeled his experiences into a one-man show, navigating the emotional complexities of her illness. Defying initial prognoses, Susan has been cancer-free for over 24 years!

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Sam reveals his own diagnosis with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and later, Alzheimer's disease. He candidly discusses the relief of a diagnosis after initial dismissals and how his memory challenges became evident while performing his first play.

Inspired once again, Sam created a second one-man show, this time as a patient living with Alzheimer's. He passionately advocates for:

• Living a meaningful life with memory loss: Strongly opposing assisted suicide, Sam believes individuals with Alzheimer's still have valuable contributions to make, even if it's just a "nanosecond" towards finding a cure.

• The necessity of accommodations: He champions "cognitive navigators" and increased accessibility for those with cognitive impairments, highlighting tools like the "hidden disability" lanyard used in airports.

• Changing the narrative around memory loss: Sam expresses his strong dislike for the term "dementia," finding it degrading and dehumanizing, preferring "memory loss" to emphasize the human being behind the diagnosis.

Join us for this deeply moving and insightful discussion that challenges perceptions, advocates for dignity, and celebrates the resilience of the human spirit.