With the book "My Life with Frontotemporal Dementia: I Lose Words, But Not My Voice", Raimund Oberschmid has published a moving work that offers valuable insights to those affected, relatives, and professionals alike. In an exclusive interview with Reviva, he talks about his motivation, the challenges of writing, and the importance of raising awareness about this rare form of dementia.
About the Author
Raimund Oberschmid was born in Tyrol in 1975. For many years, he passionately engaged in a football club in his home community, where he accompanied children and young people as youth leader and coach. Promoting people, creating community, and giving courage was always close to his heart. After being diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in the early stage, he began to document his experiences in writing. With his book, he wants to give those affected and relatives an honest insight into life with this disease and strengthen understanding of FTD. His open and direct manner shows that despite all limitations, hope, cohesion, and joy of life remain possible.
Why a Book About Frontotemporal Dementia?
"I wanted to capture my thoughts and experiences and raise awareness because FTD is unknown to many. My goal was to encourage others and show: You are not alone," explains Raimund Oberschmid. His personal account is more than just a story – it is a motivational book for those affected by dementia and a call to bring frontotemporal dementia more into public consciousness.
Understanding Frontotemporal Dementia
Most people associate "dementia" with Alzheimer's. Less known is that there are different forms – including frontotemporal dementia, which often occurs in younger people and shows different symptoms. "In public perception, FTD is almost invisible. Even many doctors and caregivers don't know the differences exactly," emphasizes Oberschmid. This often leads to misunderstandings and misdiagnoses.
"I Lose Words, But Not My Voice"
The subtitle of his book sums up his attitude: "Language and expression change due to the disease, but my inner self remains. As long as I can express myself, I want to use my voice – for myself, but also for others." This makes the work an authentic personal account of dementia that makes the inside perspective of those affected understandable.
Writing as a Challenge
The book was created with a lot of patience and support. "Sometimes words or contexts were missing. I was often exhausted after writing. But I really wanted to do it." This feat makes the work all the more valuable – it is an authentic testimony that gives hope to those affected and relatives alike.
A Message to Relatives and Those Affected
Particularly important to Raimund Oberschmid is to convey to others that life continues despite the diagnosis: "Life is possible even with this diagnosis. Every day has valuable moments. Openness, humor, and support help enormously." A sentence he wants to pass on to relatives: "If someone says a hurtful word, remember – that's not me, it's the disease."
Looking to the Future
Oberschmid wants to continue raising awareness – be it through lectures, conversations, or more texts. "I want to stay active as long as possible and consciously shape my life – in the circle of my family."
Conclusion
With "My Life with Frontotemporal Dementia", Raimund Oberschmid has succeeded in creating a unique personal account. The book informs, gives courage, and opens eyes to a disease that has often been overlooked until now.
Thanks to the Author
Reviva would like to thank Raimund Oberschmid heartily for his openness and willingness to share his experiences. With his book and his words, he gives courage, understanding, and new perspectives to those affected, relatives, and professionals.