The story behind LUMA

I'm Sharon, mother of three sons, married to Enzo, and daughter of Marlies, who has dementia. She was the inspiration for LUMA.

My mother is lovingly cared for by my father, with help from us children, caregivers, and friends. That's wonderful, of course, but it's also difficult. In daily life, moments of misunderstanding and shame sometimes arise. In the store, at the checkout, in a restaurant, or on the road. Moments when you'd like to say, "She has dementia," but you can't without hurting her feelings.

Then I thought, how nice would it be if there was a simple, stylish symbol that silently says, be patient, show understanding.

This is how LUMA was born - a subtle pin for people with dementia (and also a bit for their loved ones).

The pin's open circle represents a full-fledged human being, of whom a piece has unfortunately been lost—memories, words, understanding. With LUMA, I want to make that invisible part visible in a gentle, human way.

My dream is that LUMA will become a landmark within a dementia-friendly community.

A small symbol that connects, without words. A circle of light that says: I am here, be patient. A gentle sign, a grand gesture.