A Journey of Strength, Hope, and Resilience: Emily Ong’s Story
We’re thrilled to bring you an exclusive 6-part series featuring the inspiring journey of Emily Ong—a wife, mother, and relentless advocate redefining what it means to live with young-onset Alzheimer’s. Emily uses her firsthand experience to drive change as a Dementia Expert by Experience, passionately addressing issues like rehabilitation, disability rights, environmental influences on dementia, and the challenges faced by women and care partners.
Diagnosed in her 50s, Emily shares her raw and real experience navigating the challenges of this condition, from the emotional rollercoaster of the diagnosis to the powerful lessons in resilience, independence, and the importance of family support. Her voice resonates in conversations about employment and dignity for those navigating cognitive impairments, empowering others to embrace hope and action. Through her advocacy, Emily is turning personal challenges into a powerful force for global awareness and positive change.
In this series, Emily opens her heart to show the world what it truly means to live with Alzheimer’s at a young age, offering hope, practical advice, and a new perspective on caregiving, long-term planning, and emotional well-being.
Don’t miss out on Emily’s incredible story – stay tuned for each part of the series!
The Ripple Effects on Life, Relationships, and Career
When I was diagnosed in 2017, I felt like my entire world shifted. I couldn’t wrap my head around it—how could this happen to me, in my 50s?
I had seen dementia before, but never like this. My mother-in-law and my friend’s mother had it, but they were in their 70s or 80s. When the doctor mentioned “mild cognitive impairment” and the possibility of young-onset dementia, I felt like my life had been turned upside down. It seemed so out of place for someone my age.
The day of the diagnosis is still a blur. I remember sitting in the doctor’s office as he talked about my safety, telling my family I should stop cooking. It felt like a punch to the gut. Cooking wasn’t just a routine for me—it was my way of nurturing my family. Hearing that I could no longer do it felt like losing a piece of myself. I walked out of the room, tears streaming down my face, and sat in the waiting area, crying uncontrollably. All I could think about was my mother-in-law, who had transformed from an independent woman into someone entirely dependent on others. Was that my future too?
Adjusting to a New Normal
Life after the diagnosis changed quickly. The things I used to do without thinking suddenly became off-limits. Cooking was one of the first safety concerns, and while I understood the reasoning, it was still devastating. Simple things I took for granted now felt like monumental losses.
My family tried to be supportive, but it wasn’t easy for them either. My daughters had been somewhat prepared because of what my daughter’s professor had mentioned earlier, but hearing the diagnosis made it real for them in a way we hadn’t anticipated.
The hardest adjustment, though, was for my husband. To this day, he struggles to accept it. He wants me to be the person I was before, and that’s a reality I can’t give him. It’s one of the reasons he isn’t my primary caregiver—he just hasn’t been able to reconcile the changes.
Navigating Career and Social Changes
The diagnosis didn’t just affect my family life; it also reshaped my career and social interactions. Suddenly, I had to navigate a world where my abilities were questioned—not just by others, but by myself. Tasks I used to do without a second thought became sources of anxiety and frustration.
Moving Forward Together
This journey has been about more than just me. It’s about my family learning to adapt alongside me. It’s about finding ways to support each other through the ups and downs. And it’s about redefining what life looks like with young-onset dementia—not just for me, but for everyone who loves me.
I’ve learned to lean into the support around me, even when it’s hard. Sharing my story is part of that process. I hope it helps others understand that dementia isn’t just a condition—it’s a journey that touches every part of life, including the lives of those around us.
With patience, adaptability, and love, we’re finding our way forward—together.
Don’t miss out on Emily’s incredible story – stay tuned for each part of the series!
For more articles on Dementia, Active Ageing and Help for Caregivers, please check our articles at Hovicare.com.
