Philomena's Story
Philomena and her husband Eddie migrated from Ireland to Australia with their 3 children in 1983. She worked as a nurse for much of her career and by 2016 Philomena was the Head of Out Patients for St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne. With a great career, 4 grown up children, 7 grand children and a wonderful marriage to Eddie, Philomena felt that she had achieved everything she had wanted in life and was ready to enjoy her golden years.
Unfortunately, this same year she was diagnosed with dementia (Early Onset Alzheimer's). Her nursing background meant Philomena knew what to expect. But she remained positive and focused on treating her condition, spending time with her family and focusing on making the most of everyday.
Nine years on, the disease has progressed to the point where so much of Philomena has disappeared. However, with the amazing love of Eddie and her family, she continues to fight and find happiness in every day.
Many of the laughs she shares with her family now revolve around music and dancing. This is when we see Philomena at her happiest and most care free, we love dancing with her at any time of the day!
We hope by spreading Philomena's love of music and dancing, we can provide some joy, and raise some money for people living with dementia, their families, and carers. So join us, and dance like no one is watching!
My Achievements
Received first gift
Added a profile photo
Shared page on social media
Updated my page
Donated to self
Reached fundraising target
Thank you to my Supporters
$316.50
Eddie O’neill
$52.92
Adam Stapleton
$50
Emma O’neill
Well done on completing the month! You definitely have mummy’s determination. Love you xx
$59.41
Anonymous
$33.15
Simon Branagan
$104.92
Alana Hedger
I’m so proud of you babe!
$59.41
Amir Abileah
Maybe this nominal donation will help. Good on you for all your efforts!
$106.12
Adam Brown
Its a great cause, appreciate what youre doing!
$33.15
Jodi Downey
Such a heartbreaking disease, but your beautiful mum is lucky to have you and the rest of her family. Happy to support your efforts Chris.
$59.41
Kathy Turner
Inspirational bro! You’ve inherited mummy’s energy and determination to make a difference!
$106.12
Todd Robertson
Great Cause and also close to my heart. Well done
$106.12
Robyn Gower
$54.12
Mark Phelan
She must be built like a Mack Truck Chris. Love the pick with the Mack cap.
$33.15
Neil Sharkey
$33.15
Sidharth Aggarwal
Thank you for sharing Philomena's story. Best wishes to the whole family !!
$33.15
Mark
I am so pleased to be able to make this donation in support of Philomena’s journey and all those living with dementia. Having witnessed first-hand what dementia does, I know how devastating and deeply painful it can be for families. That’s why I am happy to support this cause. It’s heartening to see the focus on joy, love, and togetherness through music and dancing. The way Philomena and her family embrace life, finding happiness in the small moments, is a true inspiration. I hope this contribution helps continue to spread that joy and provides support for people living with dementia, their loved ones, and their carers.
$33.15
Adam Coey
Thoughts and wishes.
$11.41
Gordon Cheng
Thinking of you and your mum. Stay strong – you're doing an amazing job!
$59.41
© Copyright 2025 Dementia Australia Ltd. ABN: 79625582771
You’re my favourite son