Let’s Make It Craft Group - Derby City Dementia Support Service
Our artwork reflects the journey many people experience following a dementia diagnosis. At first, it can feel as though dark clouds have gathered. There are questions, uncertainty, and emotions such as fear, confusion, denial, and worries about memory. We wanted to reflect these feelings because they are real and often shared. In time, through coming together as a group and finding support things begin to change. Meeting others who understand what we are going through helps to ease the sense of isolation, and slowly the clouds begin to lift. We begin to realise that although dementia changes life, it does not take away who we are. As this sense of support and connection grows, so too does hope. The sunshine at the centre of our artwork represents this. It is made from hundreds of individual
pieces, just as our group is made up of many unique people. Every ray has been created by someone connected to the group – people living with dementia, carers, loved ones, volunteers, and staff. Each contribution is different, but together they form something bright, strong, and full of hope. Within the artwork, you will also find words that remind us what truly matters: love, peace, laughter, friendship, family, inclusion, communication, perseverance, and hope. These are the things that help us move forward and continue to live well. Our Ray of Hope is a reminder that a dementia diagnosis is not the end of the story. With the right support, kindness, and understanding, the clouds can lift, new friendships can grow, and hope can shine through. “Alone we made a piece. Together we made a Ray of Hope.”
Our Ray of Hope
