Candlelight Reflections To Honor Alzheimer’s Patients, Caregivers Nov. 12

SMITHFIELD – Johnston County will hold its annual Candlelight Reflections program Thursday, Nov. 12, honoring people living with Alzheimer’s disease, those who have died from the illness and the family members and caregivers who support them.

The program will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the atrium of the Johnston County Courthouse, 207 E. Johnston St. in Smithfield.

This year’s featured speaker will be Melanie Dixon Nunn of Summerfield, who cared for her late mother during her battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Nunn added space to her own home so she could care for her mother there. She is expected to discuss that experience, as well as the difficult decision to seek nursing home care after caring for her mother at home was no longer possible.

The program will also include a performance by vocalist Allison Radcliffe.

More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, while nearly 12 million relatives and friends provide unpaid care.

Johnston County Register of Deeds Craig Olive, one of the organizers of Candlelight Reflections, has personal experience as an Alzheimer’s caregiver.

“Alzheimer’s is a horrible, devastating disease, and the toll it takes on caregivers is hard to express in words,” Olive said.

He said the annual program is intended not only to remember those lost to the disease, but also to recognize families currently dealing with its effects.

“It’s important that we remember those we have lost to Alzheimer’s and those living with this disease,” Olive said. “It’s important, too, that we let caregivers know we support them and appreciate their sacrifices.”

During the ceremony, photographs of people who have died from Alzheimer’s and those currently living with the disease will be displayed on a video screen.

Families who would like to include a photograph of a loved one may email the image to craig.olive@johnstonnc.gov.

Olive also thanked Johnston County and Barbara Barbour of Community & Senior Services for assisting with this year’s program.

For additional information about Candlelight Reflections, contact the Johnston County Register of Deeds Office at 919-989-5160.