While the recent increase of life expectancy is exciting, a longer life can mean a higher risk for age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association has found that more than five million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and a recent report has revealed that 340,000 Texans are living with it. The Stayton at Museum Way, Fort Worth’s resort-style retirement community, believes it is crucial to raise awareness about this, share information and assist families by explaining the stages of dementia and ways to cope. The wife of legendary country musician Glen Campbell also has recognized the need to generate awareness about the devastating disease that has taken over her beloved husband. The making of the Academy Award-nominated documentary “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me” has helped draw attention to this growing health concern, and Glen’s wife, Kim, has been traveling nationwide to discuss it.
The Stayton recently hosted a special screening of the critically acclaimed documentary “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me” and was joined by Glen’s wife, Kim, for an incredible event. The showing of this powerful portrait of the life and career of America’s music icon Glen Campbell was followed by a Q&A portion with Kim. In addition, guests were able to have some time to meet her before the movie showing.The Stayton provided this unique opportunity to help inform its residents and guests about Alzheimer’s and the resources available for those struggling with dementia, while giving them the chance to hear from Kim Campbell directly about her family’s personal experiences.
“Being diagnosed with and coming to grips with Alzheimer’s is a difficult journey and can be overwhelming if there is not a solid understanding about what to expect or how to navigate through the inevitable changes that will take place,” said Scott Polzin, The Stayton at Museum Way’s executive director. “We at The Stayton admire the Campbells’ bravery for sharing their very personal story through this film and helping cast some light on this complicated subject. We want to help educate people about the effects of dementia and the resources that can ensure one continues living a purposeful life.”
Winner of a Grammy for Lifetime Achievement and a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Glen Campbell was the first country music star to cross over to the pop charts, opening a new realm of opportunity for future country musicians. In 2011, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and, with his family, began the biggest battle of his life. Glen Campbell and his wife, Kim, made history by going public with the diagnosis – the first time a major American celebrity shared this experience with the world. The Campbell family then set out for what was to be a short “Goodbye Tour,” but the three-week engagement turned into an emotional and triumphant, nationwide, 151-show tour de force.
This epic human drama depicts the undying bond between Glen and Kim through their unwavering care for each other and shows their story of love and resilience with the power of song. It is the inspirational real-life account of how, against all odds, America’s greatest country star would not give up his music or his family.
“This documentary really hits home for many of our staff members, residents and families. In addition to the fabulous independent living residences, The Stayton provides a full range of health care services including memory support, so we have several residents here who are going through various stages of dementia right now,” said Polzin. “We hope that our residents and their families and guests realized by seeing the Campbells’ journey depicted in this film that life can continue after the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and people can keep enjoying life with the ones they love.”
Images courtesy of Bruce Maxwell Photography