A BRADFORD man who has a rare form of dementia has thanked the University of Bradford for saving his life after being awarded an honorary doctorate earlier this week.

Michael Andrews, 63, made the moving revelation before being made an Honorary Doctor of Health on Tuesday.

Michael was diagnosed with Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) in 2017 and has since made it his mission to raise awareness of the condition, appearing in educational films, writing books and working with healthcare professionals to change the treatment and perception of people with dementia. 

“Never did I ever think I would receive an honorary doctorate,” said Michael, who is originally from Lisburn, Northern Ireland but has lived in Bradford for 33 years.

“I had to read the letter six times. I thought they must have the wrong person or that it was a wind-up.

“The University saved my life. I feel incredibly proud to receive this.”

Two years before being diagnosed, Michael started to struggle at work as a long-distance lorry driver. 

Motorway lanes blurred together at night, exit junctions were unclear and he had to double check place names that sounded similar, like Croydon and Crawley. 

“I put it down to tiredness,” he said.

PCA dementia does not present the typical symptoms associated with dementia, such as memory loss and confusion.

Instead, Michael struggles to differentiate between groups of objects and has balance issues.

“I went through a really difficult time. I didn’t want to talk to anyone or see anyone,” Michael, who was in the army from 16 to 30, added.

“I live alone and, at one point, there was a discussion as to whether I would need to go into a care home.”

Michael was asked to be part of a research group for a 12-week Journeying Through Dementia project led by Gail Mountain, Professor of Applied Dementia Research, University of Bradford.

“It was my life saviour,” he said.

“You could talk about your issues, and they would give you advice. It made a big difference.”

As part of Journeying Through Dementia, Michael made a film and presented it at City Hall. 

He has been involved in numerous research projects for the University of Bradford’s Centre for Applied Dementia Studies, co-authored a book to help those diagnosed with PCA dementia and co-produced a teaching module for the University.

“I’ve learned I can deliver a speech and have an impact,” he added.

“I just hope people who are diagnosed will never have to experience what I went through.”