Theo & Claudette's Story

Discover the Support Within: Theo & Claudette’s Story

For nearly five decades, Theo and Claudette have walked through life side by side. Married for 47 years and now living in Abram-Village, PEI, they’ve built a life marked by adventure, curiosity, and deep family and community connections. From raising a family to living abroad in France, from volunteering to supporting neighbours in need, they have always believed in giving back to the Island that shaped them.

But in early 2021, their journey took a turn neither of them expected.

Early Signs – and an Early Diagnosis

Theo had seen dementia up close before. He watched his late father and three of his siblings receive the same diagnosis, and he knew the importance of paying attention to the little things. So when he began noticing changes in his thinking and memory, he didn’t wait.

“I wanted to get checked right away,” Theo said. “I needed to see what was going on and if I could do anything to slow it down.”

A visit with their family doctor led to a referral to a geriatrician, who later confirmed the diagnosis: Alzheimer’s disease, the most common cause of dementia.

Claudette remembers the weight of that time, “I was Googling everything, reading so much, not knowing what applied to us and what didn’t.”

What she needed wasn’t more information – she needed the right information, in the right format. Clear, compassionate support. People she could talk to who understood what they were going through.

That’s when she contacted the Alzheimer Society of PEI.

Finding Guidance, Comfort, and Confidence

“The Alzheimer Society was the driving force I needed,” Claudette shared. “I didn’t hesitate. It was very early that I contacted the Alzheimer Society. I needed information – nothing was more important than getting information in a timely manner.”

She signed up for education sessions, which helped her understand the changes she was seeing with Theo and what to expect. The sessions were clear, accessible, and grounding – a welcome contrast to the overwhelming maze of online information.

But the most meaningful support came from the human connections:

• Caregiver support groups, where she could share and hear others stories
• Supportive counselling, where she found comfort during vulnerable moments
• Sharing with others, bringing confidence and clarity

“It was the personal contact that was so important to me,” she said. “If the Alzheimer Society wasn’t there, I would be at a loss. For me, it was a lifesaver to share with someone. To learn. To bring me confidence, comfort, and security.”

Claudette’s voice softens when she talks about how much those programs meant to her. Her gratitude is deep and genuine.

Living Well – with Openness, Humour, and Community

Theo approaches life with a remarkable blend of honesty, acceptance, and humour. He’s creative and artistic, and he loves staying connected to the people around him.

“I enjoy using my sense of humour,” he said. “If everyone is smiling at the end of the day, then I achieved my goal.”

One of his favourite recent memories is sharing his creativity with his 13-year-old step-grandson. Theo motivated him to paint a 4x4 canvas one day, and joked with him that it was worth at least $400. He still laughs about it, especially because his step-grandson hasn’t forgotten the price tag.

Theo also made the difficult but responsible decision to stop driving when his license was revoked. His doctor was surprised at how accepting he was.

“I thought of the consequences if there was an accident,” he said. “For me, for others. It was better for everyone.”

Openness has become one of his strengths. He talks about his diagnosis with neighbours, friends, and community members so they know how to support him. He wants others to learn what dementia really looks like.

“People are scared of the word ‘Alzheimer’s’,” he said. “They think if they don’t talk about it, it will go away. But it is a subject that you cannot ignore. With more awareness and educating ourselves, all of society benefits.”

He spoke passionately about destigmatizing dementia and he believes in ASPEI’s crucial role in this mission.

Shifting Dreams – Finding New Ones

Theo and Claudette spent years travelling the world. But now, life looks a little different. Their priorities have shifted and they’ve learned to find joy in new places.

“We will probably not be travelling to Europe anymore,” Claudette shared. “Priorities have changed and dreams have changed. And that’s okay. We find new dreams.”

Those dreams now include continuing to stay connected to their community, family, and hobbies, sharing their story, and advocating for accessible dementia support – especially in French.

Both Theo and Claudette are proud Francophones, and they recognize the need for more culturally and linguistically accessible services on PEI. They hope that by speaking up, they can help ensure that future families will have access to guidance in the language that feels like home to them.

Why Your Support Matters

The programs that helped Theo and Claudette – education sessions, counselling, support groups, community navigation – are made possible because people across PEI choose to give.

Dementia doesn’t only affect the person diagnosed. It reshapes the life of an entire family.

Your generosity ensures that no Islander faces dementia alone. It helps families access support earlier, learn ways to adapt, and rediscover a sense of comfort, confidence, and hope.

Theo said it best: “Situations are like clouds – there is always something to be discovered. The beauty within the clouds brings a sense of peacefulness.”

Your gift makes that discovery possible.

 

Make a Difference Today

If Theo and Claudette’s story resonates with you, we invite you to support families like theirs across PEI. Donate today and help Islanders impacted by dementia access free education, counselling, and support programs.

*Gifts made before December 31 receive a 2025 tax receipt.

Make your holiday gift now: Click here to donate!

 

Thank you for helping Islanders discover hope.