Having 'stumbled' across this website on a search for info about dementia, I was amazed to see such a wonderful support for carers. I have cared for my father for the last 5 years, since his diagnosis with vascular dementia, and it has been the most distressing and isolating experience. And of course things dont get any better!! Despite the wonders of modern medicine suffering the illness is still a dangerous voyage into the unknown. I thought I had got better at dealing with the situation, managing family and work commitments and my dad,then along comes another serious decline and I am knocked sideways with stress and worry. I am OK now and have focused on the practical and back on track. I have found some of the posts most reassuring and supportive when they try to see the positive and celebrate it! and deal with the negative and accept it. I especially like the 'loose leaf folder' philosophy of Connie and Lionel, my father, if he could, would definately agree as he always saw the positive side to things!!