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Charley Webb, renowned for her role as Debbie Dingle on the long-running ITV soap Emmerdale, has bravely shared her personal journey surrounding her mother’s early-onset dementia diagnosis. In a heartfelt appearance on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Webb shed light on the struggles her family faced in obtaining the diagnosis and her ongoing commitment to raising awareness about dementia.
The Struggle for Recognition
The 37-year-old actress first revealed her mother’s diagnosis in 2023, when her mother was just 64. Webb expressed the emotional turmoil and confusion that accompanied her mother’s symptoms, which began years before the official diagnosis. “I knew in my gut that something wasn’t right,” Webb recalled. She described a pivotal moment from a decade ago when her mother forgot a significant personal detail, prompting Webb to seek help. Despite her instincts, she faced scepticism from those around her, who dismissed her concerns as overreactions.
“I think everyone around me was like, ‘you’re being dramatic, everything’s fine’, but I was adamant that something was off,” she said, highlighting the common experience of family members feeling unheard when seeking medical validation.
A Call for Early Diagnosis
Webb emphasised the lengthy and often arduous process of securing a diagnosis for younger individuals. Dementia is frequently misattributed to other health issues, particularly in those under the traditional age bracket. “We were fobbed off with diagnoses like water infections that could affect memory,” she explained, urging others not to accept premature conclusions. “I wouldn’t delay getting a diagnosis because the process is quite long, especially for someone who is younger. Really push for it, and do not take no for an answer,” she advised.
The actress’s experience aligns with broader statistics; early-onset dementia, defined as occurring before the age of 65, often goes unrecognised due to misconceptions surrounding the condition. The NHS describes dementia as a syndrome characterised by a continuous decline in cognitive function, which can profoundly impact daily life.
Navigating Difficult Decisions
In her candid interview, Webb also reflected on the emotional weight of placing her mother in a care home, describing it as both a relief and a source of guilt. “You grow up thinking you’ll always look after your parents when they need you,” she shared. “But the reality is that professional care is sometimes necessary for their safety and wellbeing.”
Despite the challenges, Webb has found solace in knowing her mother is in a supportive environment, where she can receive the specialised care that her condition demands. The actress has continued to advocate for dementia awareness, collaborating with organisations like Alzheimer’s Research UK since her mother’s diagnosis.
Why it Matters
Charley Webb’s story underscores the pressing need for greater awareness and understanding of dementia, particularly in younger populations. Her advocacy shines a light on the importance of recognising symptoms early and the emotional complexities families face when navigating care decisions. By sharing her experience, Webb not only raises awareness but also fosters a supportive community for others grappling with similar challenges, reminding us that no one should feel alone in their journey with dementia.
