I was fortunate enough to meet Ian over 50 years ago, in Crowborough hospital. After a disastrous first attempt and with a little help from my mum, he produced his second son, a beautiful boy that filled his future with happiness and joy. Throughout my childhood he was there for me, often in the garden or the shed, or one of his many other hiding spots. I discovered them all. Through my teenage years and twenties, I always felt comfortable to go to him with my problems and we often had open and frank conversations about giving me lifts, turning my music down and lending me money. He was always there for me with words of wisdom and snippets of advice, most of which I ignored repeatedly. It was heartbreaking to watch my Dad with no memory and being so confused. Then he got Alzheimer's. I met Ian again for the first time 18 months ago, well, first time for him anyway. He was fascinated by how similar we looked, but did wonder at times why I was in his house. We got on well and he appeared to enjoy my company. This is when I knew dementia was setting in. I'm thankful to have had him in my life for the last half century, and for the majority of this time, he was everything a kid could hope for in a Dad, but it is time for him to take a break. His kindness, gentle soul and sense of humour lives on through his two amazing kids, and these traits are already blossoming in our own offspring. See you later Dad X

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