Young-Onset Alzheimer’s: Surrey Dad’s Story & Hope

The story of Mark Breslaw, a South Surrey father diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease at age 47, isn’t just a personal tragedy; it’s a stark warning sign of a looming public health crisis. While Alzheimer’s is often associated with the elderly, increasing rates of early-onset dementia are challenging existing healthcare systems and demanding a re-evaluation of risk factors and support networks. Breslaw’s experience, shared during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, highlights the critical need for early detection, destigmatization, and innovative approaches to care.

Breslaw’s initial dismissal of his symptoms – attributing them to stress and a demanding career – is a common experience. This delay in seeking help is often fueled by a lack of awareness about younger-onset dementia and the stigma surrounding cognitive decline. The fact that he initially didn’t suspect dementia is telling; the disease is still largely perceived as a condition affecting only the very old. His journey to diagnosis, involving cognitive assessments and a cerebral spinal fluid test, illustrates the complex and often lengthy process individuals face when seeking answers. The Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s First Link Dementia Helpline proved invaluable, offering validation and support even before a formal diagnosis – a crucial element often missing in the early stages of the disease.

The decision to step away from his senior role at Electronic Arts, while difficult, demonstrates a pragmatic acceptance of the disease’s progression. However, Breslaw’s subsequent involvement in the Lived Experience Partner Program is particularly noteworthy. This highlights a growing movement within the dementia community: empowering those living with the condition to become advocates, educators, and researchers. This shift represents a fundamental change in how we approach dementia – moving away from a purely medical model to one that values the lived experience and agency of individuals affected by the disease.

The Forward Look

Breslaw’s story is likely a harbinger of increased demand for specialized services for younger-onset dementia. We can anticipate several key developments in the coming years:

• Increased Investment in Research: The rising prevalence of younger-onset cases will likely spur greater funding for research into the underlying causes and potential treatments for early-onset Alzheimer’s.
• Expansion of Support Services: The Alzheimer Society of B.C. and similar organizations will need to expand their capacity to meet the growing demand for support groups, helplines, and educational resources tailored to younger individuals and their families.
• Workplace Adaptations: Employers will need to become more aware of younger-onset dementia and develop policies to support employees living with the condition, allowing them to continue contributing their skills and experience for as long as possible. Breslaw’s desire to continue contributing his expertise is a model for this.
• Focus on Preventative Measures: While a cure remains elusive, increased attention will be paid to lifestyle factors – diet, exercise, cognitive stimulation – that may help delay the onset or slow the progression of dementia.

Ultimately, Mark Breslaw’s courage in sharing his story serves as a powerful call to action. It’s a reminder that Alzheimer’s disease is not just a disease of aging, but a complex condition that can affect anyone, at any age. The challenge now is to translate awareness into action – investing in research, expanding support services, and fostering a more inclusive and understanding society for those living with dementia and their families.

Learn more about the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and the unique journeys of people affected by the disease in two virtual panel discussions.