TV star Pauline Quirke's dementia has advanced to the point where she no longer recognises her own family, her Birds of a Father colleague has heartbreakingly revealed.
The star's diagnosis with dementia was made public last month by her husband Steve Sheen, although she was diagnosed in 2021. The 65-year-old former Emmerdale and Birds of a Feather actress is now said to be struggling to remember her own relatives, as Maurice Gran, who wrote Birds of a Feather has spoken to the Mirror about how her condition has "gathered pace" since the heartbreaking diagnosis.
"Since the diagnosis, her condition has gathered pace," Maurice said. "She’s still only 65 so your heart goes out to her. Initially, she felt she was beginning to lose her grip. Now, we understand she struggles to identify members of her own family."
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Getty Images Europe)Image:
Getty Images Europe)Last month, shortly after Pauline's husband Steve announced her diagnosis, her son Charlie broke his silence to thank fans for their support. Sharing a picture of himself and his mum arm in arm, Charlie penned: "Hi all, I just wanted to say a massive thank you to all of you for your messages of support, kind words about my beautiful mum and stories you have. We, as a family are very moved and touched by all of them, and they have put a smile on all of our faces. We appreciate each and everyone of you. Thank you."
Last month Pauline's beloved husband Steve announced the Birds of a Feather star's decision to step away from the limelight. He revealed also revealed "with a heavy heart" that she had been diagnosed with Dementia four years ago.
Steve said in the statement: "It is with a heavy heart that I announce my wife Pauline's decision to step back from all professional and commercial duties due to her diagnosis of Dementia in 2021." Within the heartbreaking statement, Steve paid tribute to his wife's career, as he penned: "In drama, her BAFTA-nominated role in The Sculptress, was outstanding, as was her role as the mysterious Susan Wright in ITV's Broadchurch.
"Demonstrating her acting versatility, she also starred or appeared in more than 60 TV and film productions, including Carrie's War, North and South, Casualty, Cold Blood, Thieving Headmistress, My Family, You, Me and the Apocalypse, and of course Emmerdale."
Concluding, he requested privacy for Pauline and their family during the hard times, writing: "We kindly request privacy and understanding for Pauline and our family during this difficult period. For the time being we will not be engaging in interviews or making further statements, since Pauline just wants to spend time with her family, children and grandchildren. We are deeply grateful for the support from her peers, the public, and the dedicated staff and Principals at PQA (Pauline Quirke Academy)."
Pauline's last public appearance came in 2023 as she attended a special ceremony at Windsor Castle on February 1, despite her battle with the cruel condition.
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Dementia UK.
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