A cancer survivor herself, Susan became a full-time carer for her mum. And then the family was struck down with more news – her husband Graeme Atkins was diagnosed with younger onset dementia at just 54. From that moment, their lives changed.

Susan and Graeme will be guest speakers at the May 30 meeting of the Mid North Coast Dying with Dignity NSW group.

The meeting will be held from 10am to 12 noon at Panthers Port Macquarie. Entry is $5 and includes morning tea.

For Susan, juggling two people with dementia was a roller-coaster ride, with highs and lows. Sadly, her mother passed away a couple of years ago.

In 2011, Susan was named the NSW Caring Partner of the Year and she was made an ambassador in order to continue raising awareness of the important roles that unpaid carers play.

After overcoming childhood medical problems, Graeme taught primary school students, as well as high school mathematics for 32 years.

He has always enjoyed playing the guitar and composing his own songs.

When Graeme was diagnosed with dementia he had to stop working and driving. He hates not driving because he has lost his independence.

These days Graeme concentrates on keeping his brain and body active through reading, playing lawn bowls and, of course, his music. He has written many songs about his illness.

A couple of years ago Graeme was also diagnosed with cancer and, as a result, had to have part of his kidney removed.

Susan and Graeme have presented at numerous forums, conferences and meetings, relating their journey with dementia through Graeme’s songs.They do this work as volunteers in order to educate and help people to understand the impact of dementia.