But Dad Remembers Everything: A Conversation of FTD with Jeff Ton

Parenting UP! Caregiving adventures with comedian J Smiles

Parenting UP! Caregiving adventures with comedian J Smiles
But Dad Remembers Everything: A Conversation of FTD with Jeff Ton
Jul 23, 2023 Season 3 Episode 23
J Smiles

Has the thought of becoming an unexpected caregiver for a LOVED ONE ever crossed your mind? Imagine the journey of a man thrown into this role, tasked with caring for his charismatic and beloved father after his mom dies. Join J Smiles as she welcomes Jeff Ton, whose heartfelt story ushers us into the emotional rollercoaster that is Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD) caregiving. 

Against the backdrop of the shared love and respect for his father, a revered doctor and bishop, Jeff navigates us through the intense, sometimes baffling journey of a dementia with memory attached. He opens up about the struggle to get the correct diagnosis for his father and the unique strategies they adopted to keep up with his father's changing reality. His father's insistence on maintaining a sharp appearance, even as his condition worsened, is a testament to the human spirit and the complexities of FTD.

There is a wealth of insight in Jeff's story. He underscores the importance of self-care your way, the need for strong advocacy, and the tough decisions in telling your LO no. 

J and Jeff giggle throughout over the humorous antics of his father. 

Support the show

"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!