The perfect Grandpa & Granddaughter relationship - Roy’s Story

Roy and his much loved granddaughter Scarlett (3)

Alfred Roy Fisher, known as Roy was born onto the Castlereagh Road in November 1939. Roy was the youngest of 4 children and was the only boy which meant he was loved, adored and spoilt by 3 older sisters! His career started in Insurance at the young age of 18 in Belfast City Centre. Realising that a desk job didn’t lend itself to clocking off early to play golf as much as one on the road would, Roy quickly changed careers and started an Industrial Cleaning Firm. He progressed in this field until retirement at the early age of 76!

Roy’s family noticed changes in his memory from around 70 onwards. Nothing drastic, but little incidents of forgetting would start to occur. Roy was aware himself that his memory wasn’t as strong so he set about getting organised at that early stage. He started keeping a diary every day to remind him of appointments, birthdays and events etc. This worked really well and it wasn’t until February this year that Roy was fully diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. He was surprised at the consultation, but the wonderful thing about his condition is that he has not thought about it since and now with the help of medics’ action, Roy is forging ahead and enjoying life with Scarlett!

Scarlett is Roy’s granddaughter who turned 3 in October. The bond between the two is tangible and the family firmly believe that their friendship has helped Roy continue to sparkle. Roy enjoys regular day trips, lunches out especially S.D. Bells and trips to the park. He travels into town once a week for his extra mature cheddar (man of habit) and has sailed through the stages of lockdown (Possibly blissfully unaware at times!)

Roy's wish is to remain at home and with the help of his daughter Emma - his wish will be granted for as long as possible. Roy is happy with Alzheimer’s and Emma says that, “the innocence of the condition makes caring for him a pleasure.”