Dementia Australia welcomes influencer and writer Tully Smyth as its newest Ambassador. Ms Smyth is on a mission to raise awareness about the impact of younger onset dementia and is a champion of more support for younger carers.
Tully’s mother Kay was diagnosed with younger onset dementia in 2002, aged 51, when Tully was 15 years old. Throughout her career Tully has shared her experience as a young carer coming of age while her mother’s and family life was upended by dementia.
As an influencer, Tully’s generosity and authenticity about the impact of dementia has resonated with her audience, building a following of more than 250,000 predominantly younger people who have, at times, provided comfort and often seek her out for information and support about dementia.
When Kay died in 2019, Tully said her followers’ messages and comments were lovely and that she was so grateful for their support.
“Dementia doesn’t discriminate - many Australians in their 30s, 40s and 50s are diagnosed with younger onset dementia. While that’s incredibly devastating for the individual, we don’t talk enough about the ripple effect it has on their young children and partners,” Ms Smyth said.
“In my case, that impact lasted over two decades.
“That’s why I’m using my platform to create change. Through my work with Dementia Australia, I hope to amplify awareness and advocate for better support systems and resources for younger people navigating life as carers.”
Mother’s Day remains an emotionally charged time for Ms Smyth, who has written a heartfelt tribute to her late mother, Kay, for Elle Australia.
“I want every Australian - especially young carers - to know they’re not alone, and that support is available,” Ms Smyth said.
“Being named a Dementia Australia Ambassador is deeply meaningful to me and my family. If sharing my story helps even one person feel seen or supported, I know Mum would be proud.”
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said Tully’s story will help others feel understood and supported, and welcomed her as an Ambassador.
“Tully’s courage and honesty in sharing about her mother’s younger onset dementia will help reduce stigma and raise awareness, and ensure more people understand what it means to live with or care for someone with dementia,” Professor Buchanan said.
“With 29,000 Australians living with younger onset dementia it’s important for all to know that Dementia Australia is here for people of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers.”
Tully’s appointment comes ahead of the Sydney Memory Walk & Jog on Sunday 25 May at Cathy Freeman Park, Sydney Olympic Park, where she will appear as a Roving MC.
The Memory Walk & Jog series brings communities together to raise vital funds and awareness to support people living with dementia, their families and carers. To find a Memory Walk & Jog event near you, or to sign up, visit memorywalk.com.au.
For information on younger onset dementia visit dementia.org.au/about-dementia/younger-onset-dementia.
To read more about Dementia Australia’s Patrons and Ambassadors visit dementia.org.au.
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Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 433,300 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.7 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au
Media contacts: Stephen O’Connell, 0402 284 257, [email protected]
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.
Note to Editors: We request, where possible, details for the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 appear alongside news stories about dementia, as these stories often prompt questions or concerns:
If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.
