Rianna Patterson, founder of the Dominica Dementia Foundation (DDF), has been awarded the 2022 Diana Award for her giant strides in bringing awareness to dementia and helping dementia patients within and outside Dominica.
The Diana Award was set up in memory of Princess Diana, the Princess of Wales who lived her life to campaign against war and hunger in Africa and around the world; she was the mother of Prince Harry and Prince William and died in an auto crash in Paris in 1997. The Diana Award was set up to immortalize her and to celebrate young people who are impacting their communities around the globe.
Patterson, 24, said her Dominica Dementia Foundation was set up at age 18 to immortalize her grandfather. The dementia charity organization led by youths supports homes for the elderly and assists caregivers to be able to care more for dementia patients. A life coach, Patterson delivers keynote addresses to students and workers to influence social change from the grassroots.
On receiving the award, Patterson expressed delight that her activities are recognized. She said she will do more to make life easier for dementia patients and will also increase public awareness for the mental condition. Most often, family members maltreat senior citizens on account of their errant behaviours without realizing the aged folks are suffering from dementia which manifests as mental deterioration or cognitive decline.
It is truly an honour to represent Dominica and the Caribbean in this cohort. I’m extremely humbled that the team at the Diana Award recognized the important work that we do at the dementia foundation. I dedicate this award to everyone fighting for this cause. I hope that this accolade inspires a young person with big dreams. It is all possible with faith!
Rianna Patterson, founder of the Dominica Dementia Foundation
The Dominica Dementia Foundation is currently crowdfunding to produce a documentary film titled Dementia in the Caribbean.
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