A Carer’s Journey of Hope

On February 20, approximately 50 people gathered at Paddington Uniting Church to celebrate the launch of Living with Dementia: A Carer’s Journey, a book written by Alicia Dong – Administrative Assistant at South Sydney Uniting Church. The book chronicles Alicia’s six-year journey caring for her late husband, Stuart Gardner, after his diagnosis of vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

The book published by South Sydney Uniting Church brings together 11 articles and accompanying paintings by artist Gloria Liang, which were first featured in South Sydney Herald in 2024.

For Alicia, this book is both a tribute to Stuart and a resource for other carers. “We have donated 10 copies to the Dementia Australia library, which is a national service, and they are placing a copy in the library in each capital city across Australia” she said. “We want to reach more carers and their loved ones sharing similar journeys, including those young carers in their 20s and 30s.”

Reflecting on her husband’s struggles and the broader challenges of dementia care, Alicia emphasised the need for greater support for carers. “I believe that my husband, Stuart, is smiling now, knowing that all his sufferings and mine would not be in vain, and he would be proud that I am doing my very best to support more carers.”

The book launch was an affirming event, with several key contributors in attendance including Dr Miriam Pepper, the book’s editor; Rev. Andrew Collis, managing editor of South Sydney Herald and minister at South Sydney Uniting Church; Graphic Designer Rob Young; and Pastor Michael Hercock and Georgina Hare from Paddington Uniting Church.

Gloria Liang, whose paintings capture the depth of Alicia’s experiences, shares “The opportunity to engage with Alicia’s experiences as a carer profoundly moved me. Through the language of art, I discovered Alicia’s words as a source of inspiration and my art was an outlet for emotions.”

Dr Miriam Pepper who is also a member of South Sydney Uniting Church underscored the significance of working on the book “It was a privilege to edit this book and the South Sydney Herald articles on which it is based and play my part in bringing her reflections and Gloria's art to a wider audience. Many of us in the Uniting Church are elderly and/or have caring responsibilities. The book is a wonderful resource to recognise, love, and support each other.”

Dementia is a growing issue in Australia, with more than 411,000 Australians currently living with the disease and over 1.6 million people are involved in their care. The number is expected to nearly double in the next 30 years, making the role of carers even more critical. Alicia’s book not only sheds light on the personal impact of the disease but also raises important questions about systemic improvements needed in aged care.

Image Courtesy of The South Sydney Herald

“I believe that my husband, Stuart, is smiling now, knowing that all his sufferings and mine would not be in vain, and he would be proud that I am doing my very best to support more carers.”

For More Information

Living with Dementia: A Carer’s Journey is available for purchase for $39.95 (plus postage) by contacting admin@southsydneyuniting.org.au or visit South Sydney Uniting Church website here. 

Gloria Liang’s accompanying paintings are on display at Paddington Uniting Church on Saturdays March 1 and 8 at 395 Oxford Street Paddington, and are available for purchase.