Allie Dippolito

I'm making the impossible, possible, by taking part in Australia's Walk & Jog Challenge to raise much needed funds for dementia research.

For those that don’t know, I work with the NDIS, loyally supporting a small network of clients. 

I met Mac a little over 3 years ago, in that time I have accumulated invaluable lessons that I will hold with me for life. 

Though sadly, he will never be aware or able to fully comprehend the extent of his influence, I hope to share it with others. 

Mac was diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia in late 2017, which initially manifested as difficulty with communication. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, which typically affects short-term memory first, Mac struggled to express his words, and now, he is unable to speak.

Like many others, at just 64, Mac was forced to retire from his work and his passion for helping others as the dementia progressively impaired his cognitive abilities, affecting his behavior, planning, self-awareness, and everyday activities. Fast forward to now, Mac’s ability to communicate, among many other things has slowly been taken away. He now requires constant supervision and assistance for all daily tasks. 

Despite these challenges, Mac maintains a cheerful disposition, never failing to bring a smile to faces of those around him. 

I was the outsider looking in, watching an incredible family be continuously challenged with things most people would’ve never imagined facing. 

In June, I will be taking part in Australia's Walk & Jog Challenge by committing to raise much needed funds to support people impacted by dementia.

Any support is appreciated 💙