Despite not having dementia himself, David Batchelor from Leicester signed up to Join Dementia Research to help others with the condition.

David’s health research journey began in 1962 when he took part in a study to treat his ruptured liver aged just 6 years old. 

“Research saved my life”

He said: “I was playing in the park and when I ran across the road on my way home, I was hit by a speeding sports car with a low sump that wedged me in and dragged me along the road. My legs were a mess and I had compound fractures and a ruptured liver. 

“The surgeons told my mum that there was nothing that could be done. I was going to die. Fortunately, I was able to take part in a trial of a new type of stitch to repair my liver, which saved my life.

“It was a Harley Street surgeon who had the idea for the suture and he was contacted. He came down from London, stitched me up and stayed in Exeter for a week to make sure it held.

“Because of this experience so early on in my life, I have always had an interest in research and a desire to take part in studies to help improve healthcare.” 

After suffering a heart attack in 2012, he began taking part in research into heart conditions to understand more about his condition and help find new treatments. 

Learning about Join Dementia Research

His involvement in these studies broadened his awareness about other types of health and care research. When he heard about Join Dementia Research, he had no hesitation in signing up. He said: “Research has saved my life and helped me understand my own health better, so I wanted to give something back and sign up to any research projects I could.” 

After signing up, David was invited to take part in the PROTECT study, which is run by the University of Exeter and King’s College London. 

The study recruited participants aged 40 years and over without a dementia diagnosis. It aims to understand how healthy brains age and why some people develop dementia. 

Participants are asked to complete yearly online surveys about themselves, their lifestyles and their health. They also take online tests, such as brain training games, to measure any changes in brain function. 

The study aims to collect data on how the brain changes over time and lifestyle factors that can prevent dementia. 

Helping others in the future

David said: “I decided to join this study straight away as it was very easy to do as it is all online. 

“I enjoy doing all of the brain training games and find them very interesting. I also enjoy the very quick surveys and if they help researchers better understand my brain better and help other people in the future, that can only be a positive.” 

Are you inspired by David’s story? Sign up to Join Dementia Research today and see how you too can make a difference.