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Honoring Andre Yarham: The UK’s Youngest Dementia Victim Dies at 24
Andre Yarham, who held the heartbreaking distinction of being the youngest person in the UK diagnosed with dementia, passed away peacefully at 24 after battling a rare and aggressive form of the illness.
An Uncommon Diagnosis and Swift Progression
From Dereham, Andre’s life was cut short on December 27 in a hospice, shortly after the holiday season. His diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia came when he was only 22-a rare subtype of dementia caused by a mutation in a specific protein, affecting a very small percentage of patients worldwide.
His family first observed alarming changes in his speech, coordination, and mental sharpness. MRI scans later revealed that Andre’s brain had deteriorated to resemble that of a 70-year-old, despite his young age, underscoring the rapid and severe progression of his condition.
A Family’s Tribute and Dedication to Science
Andre’s mother, Sam Fairburn, shared a touching homage, describing her son as “a truly kind soul.” In a bid to contribute to medical advancements, the family decided to donate Andre’s brain to dementia research, hoping it will help unlock new insights into the disease.
“There remains a widespread lack of understanding about the devastating impact of dementia,” Sam remarked. “This illness presents in many forms, each with unique symptoms and challenges.” She added, “If Andre’s donation can help even one family gain more time with their loved one, it would be a priceless legacy.”
The Final Chapter and Enduring Impact
In the closing months of his life, Andre’s symptoms escalated rapidly. He lost his ability to speak, faced severe difficulties with movement, and became fully dependent on caregivers. Initially cared for in a nursing facility, he was later moved to Priscilla Bacon Lodge Hospice, where he passed away with dignity and peace.
Life Before Dementia: Passions and Career
Andre was an avid fan of wrestling, football, and video games. Before his diagnosis, he was employed at the renowned Lotus car factory in Norwich. Sadly, his declining health forced him to leave his job much earlier than anticipated.
Promoting Early Recognition and Awareness
Andre’s experience highlights the rarity of dementia diagnoses in people under 65, a demographic that accounts for less than 5% of all dementia cases in the UK. His family urges the public to remain alert to unusual behavioral or cognitive changes in loved ones and to seek medical advice promptly, as early detection can greatly improve management and quality of life.
Recent figures from the Alzheimer’s Society UK estimate that around 42,000 individuals under 65 are living with dementia, emphasizing the critical need for increased awareness and research into early-onset dementia.
