The heart-wrenching impact of Alzheimer’s disease on families is an undeniable reality.

For those that should be enjoying their golden years, they are instead suffering. And for 80-year-old Ted McDermott of England, the progressive disease has continued to erode away at his memories since 2011.

“He no longer knows who we are, doesn’t know where he lives, has forgotten that he was married or has a son,” Simon, 42, told People. “Dad often repeats himself constantly and spends hours walking around the house calling our names and looking for us, even though we are there, he doesn’t believe we are who we are.”

Photo by Simon McDermott/Facebook

However, Simon decided to embark on a mission to bring back his father’s fading memories, even if just for a brief moment.

“Life with Alzheimer’s changes every single day. Each day there are new challenges,” he said.

As soon as you get used to one set of behaviors, something changes and then you’re right back at the start trying to learn how to deal with it.”

As Simon tried to figure out a way to limit his mother, Linda’s, exposure to Ted’s growing aggression, he would take his dad out for long drives. It was during one of these outings that Simon put on one of Ted’s old backing tracks, which he used to sing to many years ago, and something amazing happened.

“I played them and his character changed — he finally started smiling again and was less aggressive,” Simon recalls. “It became a thing that we did. Each time Dad was showing signs of aggression I’d take him out on a long drive. As well as making him happier we became very close and we would talk about everything and nothing with each other.”

The first video Simon uploaded on the internet, capturing him and his father singing “Quando, Quando, Quando” while driving through Blackburn, quickly went viral. Viewers were deeply moved by Simon’s courage and love for his father, with many relating to the story due to their own experiences with loved ones affected by dementia.

Photo by Simon McDermott/Facebook

Simon received an overwhelming response from people worldwide, inspired by his father’s journey. 

“Not in my wildest dreams did I ever think that driving dad to the supermarket and having a singalong would make such a huge difference not only to his own life, but to so many people around the world,” Simon said.

The carpool karaoke videos featuring Teddy and Simon became internet sensations, spreading joy and inspiration to countless individuals. Their efforts also helped raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society.

The story of the McDermott family’s resilience and their unwavering dedication to each other has touched the hearts of countless people. Michael Dent, Director of the Alzheimer’s Society, expressed gratitude for Simon’s efforts, stating, “Alzheimer’s Society is extremely grateful for Simon’s fantastic fundraising achievements in honor of his father, Teddy Mac.”

For a look at the amazing father-son duo, watch below.

Sources: My Positive Outlook | People | CBS