Janet: a voice for hope and healthy futures

From writer and teacher to dementia advocate

Janet Thomas has spent her life empowering others – first as a junior primary teacher, then in women’s education, and later as a creative writing academic. In 2014, she completed a PhD exploring the therapeutic benefits of creative writing, a passion she continues to share with her community. Today, she brings that same spirit to a new role: dementia advocate. 

In July 2022, Janet was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Since then, she has become a powerful voice for people living with dementia – founding a local support group, leading creative writing workshops, and speaking at national events to raise awareness. 

She’s now also turning her energy toward research. Janet is deeply committed to supporting research that could change the future of brain health – especially vascular leak therapy, a Heart Foundation Catalyst Partner initiative. 

Why tiny leaks matter

Researchers have identified a critical early clue: tiny leaks in the brain’s blood vessels – known as vascular leakage – may be an early warning sign of cognitive decline. Detecting and treating these leaks early may hold the key to slowing or even preventing dementia and related conditions. 

This cutting-edge project is pioneering a therapeutic ‘molecular glue’ to help seal and repair leaky blood vessels in the brain. It’s a bold approach aiming to prevent disease progression before it’s too late and giving people a chance at a healthier future.  

For Janet, this research offers more than scientific promise – it offers hope. 

“Patrick and I are so grateful for the research being done. Anything that helps slow progression or protect the brain is worth supporting. It gives people like me something to hold onto.” 

The bigger picture

Over 400,000 people in Australia are living with dementia – a number set to double in coming decades. Current treatments manage symptoms.

Vascular leak therapy offers a bold new direction: protecting brain health by targeting blood vessels at its earliest point of change. 

Janet and her partner Patrick share five children and five grandchildren. Staying mentally and physically active remains a priority – Janet continues to write, walk, and stay engaged in her community. 

Her story is a reminder that people living with dementia are not passive – they are active participants in shaping the future. And they’re backing innovative research that could make a difference. 

Support vascular leak therapy. Help protect brain health by detecting early changes in blood vessels – before symptoms appear. Learn more about our Catalyst Partner.