Alzheimer's Association honors assistants

The Eastern Tennessee Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association recognized outstanding certified nursing assistants and personal care assistant at its 10th annual "Caring Hearts" recognition ceremony April 29 at Calhoun's on the River in Knoxville.

Honorees from Blount County facilities were Kathie Moore, Seth Boring, Doris Lehr, Janie Pedigo, Georgia Richey, and Martha Watkins.

The premise of the program is that certified nursing assistants and personal care assistants provide the most basic care to persons who havedementia and live in a care facility. While many of these caregivers do outstanding work in this difficult endeavor, sometimes they remain unrecognized. "Caring Hearts" honors individuals for demonstrating extraordinary care and dedication to those living with Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

Honorary chairpersons were WBIR-TV's Robin Wilhoit and Gunner from WIVK-FM; both were present at the event.

The Eastern Tennessee Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association serves 26 counties and provides support and assistance to persons with Alzheimer's disease, their families and care partners.