Girl, 10, Creates ‘Loving’ Film About Her Grandma’s Alzheimer’s — and It Placed as a Runner-Up in a Competition

### Young Filmmaker’s Touching Tribute to Grandmother with Alzheimer’s

A ten-year-old girl from Stoke-on-Trent has received recognition for her heartfelt short film depicting the bond she shares with her grandmother, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease. Layla, using her creative talents, captured this emotional journey in a project titled “Hope Remembers,” which earned her a runner-up position in the national Bring Hope Home filmmaking contest.

Layla’s grandmother, June, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2015. The poignant film not only showcases their loving relationship but also aims to provide comfort to other children experiencing similar situations within their families. By sharing the experiences of dealing with Alzheimer’s through a child’s perspective, Layla’s film resonates with both sincerity and warmth.

The Bring Hope Home contest, organised by the Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA), invited participants aged between six and seventeen to explore themes related to hopes and dreams for the future. Each entry was required to be between 60 to 90 seconds long, allowing young filmmakers to express their visions succinctly. Layla’s work was among three that stood out in the competition, which saw entries from children across the UK. The judges appreciated her film as a “loving portrait,” and Layla received both merchandise and a trophy for her efforts, while the winner was awarded a full-year scholarship.

Samantha, Layla’s mother, expressed immense pride in her daughter’s achievement. “She shared Alzheimer’s through the eyes of a child with such honesty, warmth and compassion,” she said. Upon learning about the film, June was reportedly “speechless” and “over the moon,” highlighting the joy that Layla’s creation brought to her grandmother amidst her condition.

In an interview with BBC Radio Stoke, Layla described June as “kind, caring and lovely.” Her intention was not only to honour her grandmother but also to shed light on the challenges faced by young individuals who have family members dealing with dementia. The heartfelt nature of Layla’s film reflects her understanding and maturity beyond her years.

Samantha remarked on the lack of available support and discussion surrounding children’s experiences with Alzheimer’s in society. “When you watch the advertisements on TV, it’s rarely from a child’s point of view,” she explained. This observation underscores the importance of Layla’s film in generating awareness around the emotional toll Alzheimer’s can take on family dynamics, particularly for younger family members.

Layla’s film is a testament to the strong relationship she shares with her grandmother, which has served as the foundation for her creativity. Samantha remarked on how this bond has fostered something “genuine and heartfelt,” demonstrating the powerful connection between them. June, who is being cared for by Layla’s grandfather and other caretakers, is said to be doing well under their care.

The films submitted in the Bring Hope Home contest, including Layla’s touching tribute, are set to be displayed at the PQA Film Festival in 2026. Additionally, they will be made available on the academy’s YouTube channel, allowing a broader audience to engage with and appreciate the poignant stories shared by these young filmmakers.

Layla’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of the creativity and resilience found in children, especially in the face of challenging family circumstances. Her film not only represents her personal experience but also offers hope and understanding to those in similar situations, effectively bridging generational gaps through the power of storytelling.