Son who became film maker in Alzheimer’s campaign honoured

A lecturer and trainer who turned to film-making following the diagnosis of his mother with Alzheimer’s has been honoured by a national charity for his work in raising awareness of the disease.
Andrew, Valerie and Lee PearseAndrew, Valerie and Lee Pearse
Andrew, Valerie and Lee Pearse

Lee Pearse was named a Champion by Alzheimer’s Research UK following his decision to make a documentary about the illness’ impact on his family.

The 40-year-old from Sheffield, who works at Heeley City Farm and is also an Associate Lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, was devastated when his mother Valerie was diagnosed with 
frontotemporal dementia in 2007, aged just 59.

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After she was diagnosed he and his brother Andrew learned everything there was to know about the condition and made a documentary called My Name is Rod, made with the help of film producer Ant Graham and cinematographer Leon Lockley.

It follows his father, Rod, and his attempt to cope with the condition. Tragically his father died six weeks after shooting finished in a road traffic accident.

He said: “The realisation that mum was ill was gradual. She started to become detached and lose empathy. Her behaviour became increasingly erratic – she attempted to reverse on the motorway, drove on the pavement and lost her job.”

Although his mother now lives in a care home, she is being well looked after and Mr Pearse visits her most days. He was also motivated to help start the Valerie Foundation, named after his mother, to raise awareness of her particular dementia.

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The charity’s chief executive, Rebecca Wood, said: “He has shown such enthusiasm in his support for the charity and truly deserves the honour. Lee is always willing to help us make the case for research and has increased awareness of frontotemporal dementia.”