Join Chartered Physiotherapist and Hull Online MSc in Dementia graduate Lindsay Martin as she shares her inspiring journey into dementia care.

Lindsay Martin is a graduate of the Hull Online MSc in Dementia. Wo spoke to Lindsay about her journey into dementia care, her inspiration for writing a children’s book about memory loss, and how Hull’s flexible course helped her pursue her dreams.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?

I am a self-employed Chartered Physiotherapist with an MSc in Dementia from Hull University. I service Droimnin Nursing Home in Stradbally, Co. Laois and love my work!. I have dedicated my career to enhancing my patients’ quality of life, particularly those with dementia. With over 15 years of experience, I am passionate about developing innovative care strategies.  

I live with my husband Niall and family at Tankardstown, Athy, Co. Kildare, Ireland. Outside work, I am a proud mother of five children under 10, a 3rd Dan in zocho-ten karate, and enthusiast of poetry, writing, sport, animals and outdoor adventures.  

You recently had a book about dementia published - congratulations! Can you tell us about what led you to write the book? 

I recently published my book Melting Moments, which was a very exciting project.   

While studying my MSc in Dementia at the University of Hull, my children had so many questions in relation to dementia. Who will get dementia? Can I catch dementia? What happens if you get it? And so many, many, more….  

I felt that if my children had so many questions and worries, they can’t be the only ones. We therefore created two loveable penguin characters, Toddles and Waddles, and sent them on a heartwarming adventure to explores dementia in a child-friendly way. 

As Waddles' memories begin to "melt away" like snowflakes, Toddles strives to create new moments of joy and connection. The story offers a gentle way to open discussions about memory loss, highlighting how love and happiness can persist, even when memories fade. 

It reassures children that feeling scared, confused, or worried is okay, while encouraging open conversations about these complex feelings. 

This book has the potential to resonate with children and families, offering comfort and understanding for those impacted by dementia. It reflects the importance of cherishing the present and embracing love in all circumstances.  

Melting Moments is available to purchase online at Buythebook.ie and all profits go to support the great work of Dementia Ireland. The book is also available in the Irish Language.   

Why did you choose to study Dementia online with the University of Hull? 

I decided to do my MSc in Dementia and set about finding a flexible online course.  As a working mother I did not want to commit to a course I would not be able to finish, and with family no-one know what challenge is around the next corner. 

I wanted to be sure before I committed my time and money, and Hull was so helpful from the beginning.  The course offered flexibility which others didn’t.

It was fully online and offered solutions to any issues and questions prior to the start of the course.  The staff were informative, helpful and available always.  So, I began my journey! 

Did your experience on the course help you with writing your book? 

The online MSc in Dementia at Hull was partially my inspiration and gave me confidence to pursue my dream of writing a children’s book.  The course gave me a deeper understanding of the challenges people with dementia and their families face and I hope my book will help to navigate some of those challenges. 

The Programme Director Liz Price was kind enough to give me her thoughts and feedback on the book prior to submission and supported me with this project long after I had graduated.  I feel the University of Hull is always there to support me with my future endeavors should I ever need them. 

What are networking opportunities like for online students? 

The networking opportunities are great. The platform system is easy and accessible. The tutors are available and supportive as are the support teams.  

Classmates offer each other support through online chats, emails, forums and video discussions.  

The student support teams are available to answer any questions, worries or should any issues arise throughout the duration of the course.   

How did you balance work, study and socialising? 

Hull made the balance achievable! At the time I started the course, I was working and had three children.  School runs, homework, karate class, dancing class, gaelic football and soccer training, violin, swimming, all go go go! 

During the duration of the course, I had three pregnancies, which of course caused interruptions in my studies at times, with appointments, sickness, hospital stays and recovery.  

However, Hull supported me. They offered study solutions, deadline extensions, recorded missed classes so I could listen at a later time. This is doable! 

What was the support like, both during the application process and your studies?  

The course adviser team want you to succeed! They do everything they can to help you through the application process. My tutors were amazing - very informative, helpful, great guidance and available. The student advisers helped so much with paperwork, applications for extensions and general information. 

How do you think the course will help you with your future plans? 

The course made me realise that anything is possible if you open your mind.  By taking the first step and starting the MSc in Dementia, I have now written a book and hope to further my studies with a PhD at Hull. I hope to work towards creating awareness about dementia and making a difference - no matter how small! 

Would you describe the course as a good investment?  

Worth every penny!  I have gained so much knowledge, confidence in my abilities, employment opportunities and enjoyment. The course makes you open your eyes to everyday things you don’t even see! 

What’s your advice for anyone else thinking of studying this course online with Hull? 

Go for it. Make an informed decision. Ask all the questions you need, staff are there to help you. There are no foolish questions and everyone’s life and needs are different. But you can make this course fit your needs. It is flexible and worth doing! 

Thank you to Lindsay for sharing her story with us!

Interested in developing your career in dementia care? Explore the online MSc in Dementia: