In observance of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, the Life Care Center of Hilo will light “Candles of Care” at 2 p.m. Sunday 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.
In observance of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, the Life Care Center of Hilo will light “Candles of Care” at 2 p.m. Sunday 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 host 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 is at 944 West Kawailani St. The ceremony also will feature a reading of names in memory and honor, and incense burning. For more information, call Social Services at 959-9151.
According to Lee Guillermo, assistant director of social services at the center, this is the 10th time this AFA event is being hosted on the Big Island. Moku Young will conduct the prayer. The public may submit names to be read during the event and also may bring a picture of their family member.
AFA initiated the National Commemorative Candle Lighting nine years ago to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, and to highlight the availability of community resources. Participation in the event since has grown, with hundreds of sites expected to host ceremonies this year.
“Our hope is that these inspirational ceremonies will shed light on the magnitude of Alzheimer’s disease. The disease is too overwhelming and too heartbreaking for anyone to face alone,” Guillermo said.
New York-based AFAunites member organizations across North America with the goal of providing optimal care to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, and their families.
For more information about AFA and its November events, call toll-free 866-AFA-8484 or visit www.alzfdn.org. Or, contact Guillermo at 959-9151.