TEXARKANA MAGAZINE
“Our main problem,” said Arnold, “is convincing caregivers that respite is in everyone’s best interest. It is like the oxygen masks on airplanes; they always tell you to put on your own before you help someone else with theirs. You have to take care of yourself to be able to take care of anyone else.” “Many spouses are hesitant to take time off, citing their marriage vows about sickness and health, and we understand this reasoning. But we also know they might not last as long as their Alzheimer’s patients will if they do not care for themselves. Statistics show one out of five family caregivers dies before their person with dementia dies.” Support groups are an important part of the Alliance’s mission. Caregivers, who are often somewhat socially isolated, benefit from sharing their experiences with others who truly understand. A monthly Memory Café on Saturday morning offers an opportunity for caregivers and friends to socialize. Education, support, and awareness are hallmarks of what this organization, founded almost forty years ago in a local family’s living room, stands for. That original support group has grown into an organization that provides support to Alzheimer’s patients and their families in 22 counties in Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. All of it is made possible by the Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival, which uncorks this year on Saturday, May 6, at Spring Lake Park. The eighth annual event, voted Best Charity Event every year since 2018, is themed “Celebr8 Good Times... Come On!” It promises food, music, arts, crafts, wine, and more, with an accent on fun for everyone. More than 25 wineries from across the state of Texas will offer their wines for tasting and purchase. Local and regional merchants will provide a wide variety of unique items for sale. Foods of every kind will satisfy the palate, and music will soothe the soul. “There is truly something for everyone,” said event co-chair Cathy Van Herpen. “Even if you aren’t a wine drinker, you will still find many things to keep yourself entertained and satisfy your hunger, thirst, and spirit of adventure.”
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COMMUNITY & CULTURE
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