A 24-year-old man who died of dementia just after Christmas has donated his brain to help researchers understand the rare condition. Andre Yarham was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia shortly before his 23rd birthday, after initially being told he had autism.
His mother, Sam Fairbairn, noticed worrying changes in his behaviour, including talking less and losing interest in things. She took him to a specialist, and an MRI revealed his brain resembled that of a 70-year-old. The disorder left him mute, and Sam gave up work to become his full-time carer.
Andre later attended The Maltings care home in Fakenham, Norfolk, which supports adults with learning difficulties. Staff there paid tribute to his warmth, energy and wit. He was the face of parent company FitzRoy’s 2024 Christmas campaign.
Last month his condition deteriorated, and he was placed on end-of-life care. He died at Priscilla Bacon Lodge hospice in Norwich on December 27. His mother said his brain had been donated to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge for research.
Deputy manager Toby Sutherland said: 'Our dear Andre lost his courageous battle with dementia just after Christmas. He is such an energy, and his wit, humour and character are infectious.' Andre’s funeral will be held on January 27 at Breckland Crematorium, with more than 100 cars and motorbikes expected to attend.
