Úna Crawford O’Brien Gives Dementia Update on Bryan Murray: ‘I’ve Lost My Friend and My Companion
It all began on the sets of the RTÉ soap opera Fair City. Una Crawford O’Brien was playing Renee Phelan. Bryan had the character of Bob Charles. This on-screen chemistry led to them becoming a long-term couple.
Life became difficult for the couple following Bryan Murray’s Alzheimer’s disease. However, the couple has played a significant role in raising awareness about dementia. They have also been vocal about their emotional and practical challenges.
This article will explore how Alzheimer’s completely transformed Bryan and Una’s lives.
Bryan Murray’s Alzheimer’s Diagnosis and The Role of RTÉ
Sad news came in 2022: Bryan Murray was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. This meant that he would gradually lose his memory and cognitive abilities.
However, Bryan didn’t let the disease stop him from acting. He continued to work on The Fair City with a deteriorating short-term memory. Later, the need for a chaperone’s assistance arose.
Una is very thankful for RTÉ. They made great efforts to accommodate Bryan as his condition worsened. Bryan’s state called for someone to feed him lines and assist with set changes. Una acknowledged that the support allowed Bryan to continue acting with dignity.
Bryan and Una have been vocal about their struggles. They have utilised social media platforms to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease.
Progression of Bryan’s Condition
The loss of recognition was a sad part of the disease process. Una told The Irish Times how Bryan fails to recognise their home. He still knows the address but has lost their home’s meaningful aspect. This is exceptionally saddening for Una. She says she struggles to understand where he thinks “home” is.
In an interview, Una said, “I’ve lost my friend and companion.” The disease had a significant impact on their relationship. Changing it entirely. Bryan was once happy, but now he is confused most of the time.
Una blames his lack of awareness and sadness for his current state. She says he just cannot understand what’s going on around him.
According to Una, meaningful conversations with Bryan gradually became rare. Bryan kept asking questions. He asked her, “What are they doing next?” and “How am I getting home?”
Una also mentioned how difficult it is to envision plans. Bryan’s lack of orientation makes going on a holiday difficult. As soon as they leave, he wants to return home.
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and The Tea Day
Bryan and Una have continued their support for Alzheimer’s Tea Day. Una has been their ambassador, helping the event raise funds for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.
She says it is important to raise awareness about dementia. She does it for the sake of the countless families across Ireland struggling like her. Furthermore, she emphasises supporting the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland. According to her, such organisations provide vital resources for carers and families.
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland has extended great support services for families who have individuals struggling with dementia.
The society provides resources across the country, including career training, a national helpline, and day-care services.
They are currently working on expansions to support more people with dementia. To this end, they will have to open more centres across Ireland.
They will also introduce new initiatives, such as dementia cafés in public spaces. The aim is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for those with dementia.
Lord Mayor Emma Blain has strongly advocated for society and its initiatives. She plans to make Dublin more dementia-friendly. Blain’s father also had dementia. Hence, she is focused on raising awareness about the condition. This will help people with dementia feel understood and supported.
Personal Dynamics and Stigma Surrounding Alzheimer’s
In an interview, Una stated that she has witnessed many changes in Bryan over the past few months. These changes have completely transformed their lives. Una is the primary carer for Bryan. Despite the difficulty, she has embraced the role.
The disease will take away his personality and ability to interact meaningfully. Similarly, their relationship dynamics will continue to change, too.
The partnership of equals is long gone. Una has taken on a more caregiving role. Una never imagined this shift in their relationship, but life is unpredictable.
However, there is a stigma attached to Alzheimer’s in Irish society. Una and Bryan’s openness about their experience will make people comfortable discussing the disease.
Despite the growing awareness, many people in rural areas prefer not to discuss the condition. Una and Bryan’s transparency will help normalise conversations about dementia. Furthermore, families will be more willing to seek help without feeling shame.
Conclusion
Alzehimer is a gradually progressive disease. It comes with increasing challenges. Life has thrown many difficulties at Bryan and Una following Bryan’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Despite all this, Una’s love and commitment to Bryan are evident.
She has been his anchor by supporting him and carrying all the emotional burden. Una and Bryan’s story helps us understand the importance of compassion and understanding when dealing with diseases like dementia.
By creating awareness, Una is helping everyone cope with Alzheimer’s. She has played a great role in encouraging others to seek support and breaking the stigma surrounding the disease.
