Quirke son says cure for illness is coming

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 11, 2026

Charlie Quirke, whose mother Pauline Quirke was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2021, expressed hope that a cure for the disease could soon be found and the first person cured might already be alive today. His comments support Alzheimer’s Research UK’s new campaign that aims to inspire optimism about future treatments amid the challenges faced by families affected by the illness.

Charlie Quirke, son of actress Pauline Quirke, has expressed optimism that a cure for Alzheimer’s disease may soon be within reach, suggesting the first person to be cured could already be living today. Quirke, whose mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2021, made these remarks while promoting a new campaign by Alzheimer’s Research UK aimed at fostering a more hopeful perspective on the illness.

Speaking on ITV’s Lorraine on Wednesday, Charlie Quirke described the family’s approach to coping with the disease. He conveyed that Pauline, known for her role in “Birds of a Feather,” continues to engage with daily activities despite the challenges posed by the condition. “We still do as much as we can, we still go out for lunch, I made her sit through the West Ham win last night,” he said. He also emphasised the strength of their family support, noting: “We’ve got such a close family unit that it makes it easier on our journey. But touch wood, she’s happy.”

Pauline Quirke, aged 67, publicly disclosed her diagnosis last year. Since then, the family has remained candid about the uncertainties surrounding the progression of her dementia. Her husband, Steve Quirke, has acknowledged that the current state of her condition limits the possibilities for intervention, remarking, “We are not in the state where we can do much about it. Just take every day, and try to take the best moment out of that day you can.”

In a BBC Breakfast interview last November, Charlie further reassured the public about his mother’s awareness and responsiveness. He said, “My mum knows exactly who we are. Every time she sees all of us, she smiles, laughs, says ‘I love you’, says ‘hello’.” Lorraine Kelly, the host of ITV’s Lorraine, echoed those sentiments by emphasising the importance of Pauline feeling safe, happy, and surrounded by loved ones.

The family’s openness highlights both the challenges and the enduring hope experienced by those affected by Alzheimer’s disease, underscoring the ongoing efforts by research organisations to advance understanding and potential treatments.

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