Fortunately, his son Mac devised a trick to help his father get his memory back, if only for a few minutes at a time.
Music had always been one of Ted’s great passions in life. When he was younger he’d travelled around the UK performing in pubs and nightclubs.
As he grew older, however, his memory began to fail him, and it became more and more difficult for him to perform.
But despite the fact Ted can no longer tour, he still retains his passion for music.
“Dad was a singer all his life – he was a Butlin’s Redcoat and then traveled around singing in clubs around the country. He worked in a factory after he got married and still did the bit of singing on side,” Mac said.
“His nickname is ‘The Songaminute Man’ – simply because of how many songs he knows.
“In the last few years his memory has deteriorated a lot – often not recognizing family and with many aggressive episodes.”
The episodes of aggression are tough for everyone, and Ted can be difficult to handle at times.
Mac, however, has always been determined to enable his dad to continue doing what he loves.
It wasn’t long before he stumbled upon a brilliant plan.
When Mac sees his dad beginning to slip away, he puts on one of his favorite songs and starts to sing. Ted frequently remembers the lines to these songs, and joins in.
These small, cherished moments mean Mac gets to spend more time with the man he remembers. It also gives him the motivation to keep going with what he’s doing.
Mac and Ted have also started to record their songs so that more people can get involved with them. The family hopes their little trick can help others with Alzheimer’s deal with their symptoms.
Furthermore, Mac and Ted have also started a fundraiser to bring in money to produce an album. Mac has promised they will donate 25 percent of the revenue to help fund Alzheimer’s research!
Watch Mac and Ted in action together below:
Life is trying for both Mac and Ted sometimes, but at least they have each other.
Together, they’re helping to raise further awareness of Alzheimer’s through their music.
Like and share this article to help them spread their message!