Pauline Quirke’s Family Shares Heartbreaking Update on Her Dementia Battle and the Overlooked Symptom

The family of iconic British actress Pauline Quirke has shared a heartfelt and emotional update on her ongoing battle with dementia, shedding light on the challenges they face as she continues to live with the condition. The beloved star of Birds of a Feather, now 66, was diagnosed with dementia back in 2021, a diagnosis that came as a shock to both her family and her fans. Pauline’s husband, Steve Sheen, and their son, Charlie, appeared on BBC Breakfast to discuss the struggles they have faced since the diagnosis and to raise awareness about dementia, particularly its gradual onset and the common symptoms that can be easily overlooked.

A Gradual Diagnosis: From Disbelief to Acceptance

When Pauline first began to experience symptoms, Steve and Charlie were initially in disbelief. Steve recalled the moment when Pauline first noticed something was wrong: “She started reading and she phoned me on that day and said, ‘The words are not going in. That’s where it started.’”

The early signs were subtle, and at first, they didn’t immediately associate them with something as serious as dementia. Steve shared how, at the time of the diagnosis, they initially thought the symptoms could be attributed to long Covid or the flu, given that Pauline had recently experienced these conditions. “We looked at each other and went, ‘Can’t be, it’s long Covid. Got the flu,’” Steve said. However, as the symptoms persisted, the diagnosis became undeniable.

The Uncertainty of Dementia’s Progression

As Pauline’s dementia progressed, her family realized that understanding the full scope of the condition was far more complicated than they had anticipated. Charlie explained how, despite her diagnosis, they still weren’t certain about the stage of the disease. “That’s the problem, no one tells you,” he said. “My mum knows exactly who we are. Every time she sees all of us, she smiles, laughs, says ‘I love you’, says ‘hello’.”

For Pauline’s family, the uncertainty surrounding the progression of the disease has been one of the most difficult aspects of coping with her condition. Unlike some diseases where the progression can be charted more clearly, dementia’s gradual onset has meant that they take each day as it comes.

“We are not in the state where we can do much about it,” Steve admitted. “Just take every day and try and take the best moment out of that day you can.”

He went on to explain how the family had hoped that, after a year or two, things would stabilize. “It’s so gradual that for the first year, two years, you’re thinking, ‘Ah, she’s alright.’” However, now that they are three or four years into Pauline’s diagnosis, things have started to change, and they are more aware of the reality of living with dementia.

“It’s a little bit different now,” Steve added. “This is why awareness is important. We didn’t know how long it lasts, or how long you have with it, or how bad it is or how quick it is.”

Pauline’s Continued Joy and Humor

Despite the difficult challenges, Steve and Charlie emphasized that Pauline still retains much of her personality, including her humor and her ability to engage with loved ones. “She’s still funny, talking, and happy,” Charlie said, sharing that Pauline still enjoys smiling, laughing, and saying “I love you” to her family.

Pauline’s enduring ability to connect with those around her, despite the cognitive challenges of dementia, is a testament to her strength and the love she shares with her family. Steve explained that even though the family faces the gradual progression of the disease, they try to focus on the positive moments they share with Pauline each day.

“Even if she forgets things or has difficulty with words, she’s still Pauline,” Steve said. “She’s still the same person we love.”

The Overlooked Symptom: Early Signs of Dementia

One of the key points Steve and Charlie highlighted in their interview was how dementia often goes unnoticed in the early stages. The symptoms can be subtle, making it easy for them to be attributed to other causes, such as fatigue or stress. Pauline’s initial struggles with reading and processing words were the first signs that something wasn’t quite right.

It’s common for people to dismiss the early signs of dementia as part of aging or stress. Steve and Charlie’s experience underscores the importance of early awareness and education around dementia, as catching it early can help families better understand the condition and prepare for what lies ahead.

The family is determined to raise awareness about dementia and its often-overlooked symptoms, hoping that their experience will help others who might be facing similar challenges. “You don’t know how long you’ve got with it, you don’t know how bad it is or how quick it is,” Steve explained, urging others to be vigilant and seek medical advice if they suspect something is wrong.

Support for Pauline and Raising Awareness

Despite the overwhelming challenges, Pauline’s family has rallied around her, offering both emotional and practical support. They’ve also called on others to support those dealing with dementia, whether through understanding, patience, or financial contributions. The family has set up support for those who want to help raise awareness and provide resources for other families dealing with similar conditions.

As for Pauline, the family remains focused on cherishing the moments they have with her, no matter how difficult things may get. Steve summed up their approach to the journey they are on, saying, “Just take every day and try and take the best moment out of that day you can.”

Pauline Quirke’s fight with dementia is far from over, but her family’s unwavering love and determination to support her, along with their efforts to raise awareness, offer hope to others who are navigating the challenging world of dementia.

A Call for Understanding and Awareness

The Quirke family’s story serves as a poignant reminder that dementia is a complex, emotional journey that affects not only the person diagnosed but also their loved ones. As they continue to face each day with love, humor, and resilience, they hope to bring more understanding to the challenges of living with dementia.

The family’s willingness to share their personal journey and educate others about the realities of dementia is a testament to their strength and commitment. Their story offers a reminder that early intervention, greater awareness, and a strong support network can make all the difference in managing the challenges of dementia.V