Hi everyone, I hope you don’t mind me posting here, but I’ve been commissioned by Sheldon Press to write a book called ‘When someone you love has Alzheimer’s and other dementias'. (I'm a professional health writer) There are two ways in which I’m after your help: Firstly, I’m trying to get an idea of what sort of things someone who has a relative or friend with dementia would want to find in this sort of book, for example, advice on coping with practical and social issues? Information about dementia and its treatments? What other aspects would you like to see?

Secondly, I want to include some personal stories in the book, so if there’s anyone out there who would be happy to talk to me about their experience of having a friend/relative with dementia, (you don’t have to be the person’s main carer) I’d be really grateful.) I’m happy to use real or made up names in the book, and will send any contributors a free copy when it’s published, which should be in Summer 2009. Please PM me if you think you might be able to help.

Whether your loved one is in the very early stages of dementia, or whether their condition is quite advanced, I’d find your input invaluable. Hope you’ll be able to help!