Formula 1 icon Sir Jackie Stewart has shared an emotional account of his wife Helen's battle with dementia, revealing how the condition has transformed their lives. The three-time world champion, now 84, spoke candidly about watching his partner of nearly 60 years gradually change due to the progressive illness.
A Racing Legend's Personal Challenge
Stewart, known for his fearless approach on the track, described dementia as "the worst thing that's ever happened to us" during a recent interview. The Scottish racing driver, who dominated F1 in the late 1960s and early 1970s, admitted that nothing in his illustrious career prepared him for this personal challenge.
The Impact on Family Life
The couple, married since 1962, have seen their relationship fundamentally altered by the disease. "She's not the same person," Stewart revealed, explaining how Helen now requires constant care. The 84-year-old former nurse has good and bad days, with Stewart noting she still recognises family members but struggles with short-term memory.
Advocating for Better Dementia Care
Beyond sharing his personal story, Stewart has become a vocal advocate for improved dementia support in the UK. He's particularly critical of the current care system, which he describes as inadequate and underfunded. The racing legend has called for greater government investment in research and care facilities.
The Wider Dementia Crisis
Stewart's revelations come as dementia cases continue to rise across Britain, with nearly 1 million people currently living with the condition. Experts predict this number will exceed 1.6 million by 2050 unless significant medical breakthroughs occur. The former champion's decision to speak out adds an important voice to the growing call for action on dementia care.
