The youngest dementia sufferer in Britain, 24-year-old Andre Yarham from Dereham in Norfolk, passed away shortly after Christmas. His family has generously decided to donate his brain to scientific research in the hopes of advancing the search for a cure for the disease.
Andre was believed to be one of the youngest individuals in the UK to develop dementia, with symptoms appearing when he was just 22 years old. His condition, frontotemporal dementia, was diagnosed later, showing brain deterioration equivalent to that of a 70-year-old.
Despite being moved to a nursing home due to declining health, Andre’s condition worsened during the holiday season after contracting an infection, leading to his passing the day after Boxing Day. His mother, Sam Fairbairn, described him as a cheerful young man with a kind heart, emphasizing the need for more awareness of the devastating effects of dementia.
In a heartfelt tribute, Sam explained their decision to donate Andre’s brain for medical research, expressing a hope that it could benefit other families in the future. His brain was entrusted to Adenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, renowned for its expertise in neuroscience.
Frontotemporal dementia primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, impacting behavior and language severely. This form of dementia typically affects younger individuals, with most cases diagnosed in people aged 40 to 60. Andre’s condition was attributed to a protein mutation, placing him among a rare minority diagnosed with dementia before the age of 65.
Sam recounted the rapid decline in Andre’s health, noting the challenges he faced in his final months. She shared memories of his active childhood, where he enjoyed sports like rugby and football. As they prepare for his funeral, Sam aims to raise awareness and support for families affected by frontotemporal dementia.
The family’s selfless act of donating Andre’s brain for research reflects their desire to contribute to finding solutions for this devastating disease, hoping to make a difference in the lives of others affected by dementia.
