Candles to be lit for Alzheimer’s Awareness

In recognition of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, the Life Care Center of Hilo will light “Candles of Care” on Sunday, Nov. 17, to remember those who died as a result of any type of dementia, and to support the increasing number of families currently affected by the brain disorder.

Other organizations from coast to coast will similarly hold ceremonies as part of an annual National Commemorative Candle Lighting sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA). This unique event offers individuals touched by Alzheimer’s and related dementias the opportunity to unite in spirit and solidarity at multiple services on the same day.

Life Care Center of Hilo will hold its candle-lighting ceremony at the center at 944 West Kawailani St., beginning at 2 p.m. The ceremony also will feature a reading of names in memory and recognition, and also incense burning. For more information, call Social Services at 959-9151.

Lee Guillermo, assistant director of social services at Life Care Center of Hilo, reported this is the ninth time this AFA event is being held on the Big Island.

Pastor Ron Brav from Calvary Church will conduct the prayer. The public may submit names to be read at the event and may also bring a picture of their family member. AFA initiated the event nine years ago to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, and to highlight the availability of community resources. Since then, participation in the event has grown enormously, with hundreds of sites from coast to coast expected to hold ceremonies this year.

“Our hope is that these inspirational ceremonies will shed light on the magnitude of Alzheimer’s disease.,” said Guillermo. “The disease is too overwhelming and too heartbreaking for anyone to face alone.” AFA, based in New York, unites member organizations across North America with the goal of providing optimal care to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, and their families. Its services include a toll-free hotline, educational materials, a free quarterly magazine for caregivers, and professional training. For more information about AFA and its November events, call toll-free 866-AFA-8484 or visit www.alzfdn.org. Or, call Guillermo at 959-9151.