The Project star Hamish Macdonald has revealed the heartbreaking loss of his father Iain, aged 85.
The television personality, 43, took to LinkedIn on Friday to share the news, revealing that his father had succumbed to Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body Dementia on Sunday.
Hamish shared a photo of his father on stage and wrote a heartfelt but ‘objective’ tribute, following his father’s wishes.
“Dad left instructions in his will that any funeral announcement should be ‘concise, simple and free from subjective statements,’” he wrote.
‘He was 85 when he died on Sunday. A proud father and grandfather. He had been a rower, skier and pharmacist. We will miss him enormously.’
Hamish continued the tribute, saying his father’s end was “peaceful” despite the ravages of his condition.
‘Dad found the loss of independence that came with Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body dementia really difficult, but in the end he was at peace, surrounded by family.
He received excellent care in the aged care system from carers, nurses and doctors who offered him both respect and dignity until his final hour. We thank them.
The Project star Hamish Macdonald has revealed the heartbreaking loss of his father Iain, aged 85, after succumbing to Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body dementia
He closed the tribute with a loving: ‘Love you Grumble Bum x.’
A host of Hamish’s broadcasting colleagues quickly offered their condolences, including Channel 10 news presenter Sandra Sully.
‘A big hug to you Hamish. It’s all so sad when you lose a parent,” Sandra wrote.
ABC stalwart Geraldine Doogue and co-host of the ABC podcast Global Roaming with Hamish, also offered a kind word, writing: “Yes, Hamish peas-in-a-pod, that’s for sure. In my opinion, you have certainly supported him in an exemplary manner. I’m fine without him.’
Hamish shared a photo of his father on Linkedin on Friday and wrote a heartfelt but ‘objective’ tribute, as per his father’s wishes
According to Dementia AustraliaLewy body dementia is an umbrella term that describes two forms of dementia: dementia with Lewy bodies and dementia in Parkinson’s disease.
Lewy body dementia causes changes in a patient’s thinking, movement, behavior and body functions.
A Lewy body is a small tangle of proteins called alpha-synuclein in brain cells. These confused proteins cause damage that affects movement, thinking and behavior.
“Dad left instructions in his will that any funeral announcement should be ‘concise, simple and free from subjective statements,’” he wrote.
In 2024, the former host of ABC’s Q&A joined dementia patient and fellow journalist Jim Rogers to host the podcast Dementia Australia Hold the moment.
Speak with Hello Care Speaking about the podcast, Hamish said he was impressed by the people he met through the project who were living with dementia.
“As a journalist I have met many people with dementia, but this all hit close to home a few years ago when my father was diagnosed with dementia,” Hamish said.
‘The stories shared by all people affected by dementia will help break down barriers that discourage people from seeking help and reduce the impact of social isolation.
‘Receiving news of a diagnosis is huge and every step of this project I have been in awe of all the people with dementia who are willing to share their often intensely personal experiences to help others.’