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Gene test reveals early dementia fate at 43
5 Nov
Summary
- Laura learned she inherited a gene for early onset dementia.
- The test confirmed the gene when she was in her 30s.
- She is now 43 and anticipating symptom onset.
Laura Sides faced a significant decision: to discover if she carried a gene for a rare form of early-onset dementia, a condition that affected her father. After her father's diagnosis in his 40s and subsequent death in 2009, Laura, who had cared for him, was informed she had a 50/50 chance of inheriting the gene.
In 2013, now living in Melbourne, Australia, Laura sought testing. Following six months of genetic counseling, she received confirmation at age 30 that she had inherited the gene, with expected symptom onset between 46 and 48. This news led to a period of anger and confusion.
Laura, now 43, is preparing for the predicted onset of symptoms. She has returned to the UK, focusing on quality time with loved ones and simple pleasures. She has chosen not to have children due to her diagnosis, but finds joy and reassurance in being loved despite her condition.
