Pauline Quirke's Dementia Battle: A Heartbreaking Update from Linda Robson

Image credits: ITV

Linda Robson has shared a sad update on her friend Pauline Quirke's battle with dementia, revealing that the actress no longer recognizes her own grandchildren. Pauline's struggle with the illness was disclosed publicly last month by her husband Steve Sheen, who confirmed she was diagnosed in December 2021. Linda, who starred with Pauline and Lesley Joseph in the hit sitcom Birds of a Feather, explained that she's stayed in close contact with her former co-star's family since the early stages. She has been keeping in touch with Steve and their children, Emily and Charlie, and has been using FaceTime to stay connected with Pauline, although she noted that her friend doesn't say much during their calls.

Linda has noticed "a real difference" in Pauline, who she doesn't believe remembers her. The Loose Women star said that Pauline's condition is "really sad" and that it's hard for her to see her friend struggling with the illness. She added that it's nice to see the support for Pauline, but sometimes talking about it can be upsetting. The actress, best known for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the long-running sitcom, has had an illustrious career spanning 50 years and has starred in over 60 television and film productions. According to the NHS, dementia is not a natural part of ageing, and it's essential to seek medical advice sooner rather than later if you're concerned about memory problems or other symptoms. The health service also emphasizes that there are different types of dementia, and it can affect people in various ways, with common early symptoms including mild cognitive impairment, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating.

Andy, a 52-year-old man who was diagnosed with young onset dementia, shared his story, revealing that he initially laughed off his symptoms and refused to go to the doctor. However, after realizing he was forgetting important things, he decided to seek medical help and was eventually diagnosed with the disease. Andy's partner, Christine, a nurse, had noticed red flags, including his forgetfulness and clumsiness, and had encouraged him to see a doctor. The former army cadet instructor said that he was "devastated" by the diagnosis and was angry that the future he had imagined with his partner was suddenly taken from him. He has since found support and has been raising awareness about dementia, emphasizing the importance of positivity and exercise in managing the condition. Andy uses sport to keep his mental health stable and has been doing iron man challenges, triathlons, and marathons to prove that he is still the same person despite his diagnosis.

The topic of dementia has become a big talking point since Pauline Quirke's husband gave a heartbreaking update about her deteriorating condition. The NHS states that early symptoms of dementia include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and finding familiar tasks difficult, as well as struggling to follow a conversation, being confused about time and place, and mood changes. If you or someone you care about has concerns about possible dementia, you can find more information on the NHS website or arrange a meeting with your GP. It's essential to seek medical advice sooner rather than later, as early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing the condition. Linda Robson's update on Pauline Quirke's condition serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting those affected by dementia and raising awareness about the illness.

In addition to Linda Robson's update, other celebrities have been sharing their experiences and raising awareness about dementia. For example, Vanessa Feltz has been open about her own experiences with the illness, and Ferne McCann has been sharing her story about breastfeeding her baby daughter. While these stories may not be directly related to dementia, they highlight the importance of supporting those affected by the illness and raising awareness about various health topics. By sharing their stories and experiences, celebrities can help reduce the stigma surrounding dementia and encourage people to seek medical help if they're concerned about their health. Ultimately, it's crucial to prioritize our health and well-being, and to support those affected by dementia and other illnesses, by staying informed and seeking medical advice when needed.