Alzheimer’s Author Kapsambelis to Speak at Goodstein Foundation Library

Niki Kapsambelis, author of “The Inheritance: A Family on the Front Lines of the Battle Against Alzheimer’s Disease,” will speak at the Goodstein Foundation Library on Tuesday, Nov. 7. The event is free and open to the public.

In addition to Kapsambelis, the presentation will also feature Robin McIntyre, a member of the DeMoe family featured in the book, and Kelly Shipley, who has her master’s in social work and is a licensed clinical social worker.

According to Wyoming Dementia Care, “The Inheritance” tells the story of the progression of an autosomal dominant genetic mutation plaguing one North Dakota family with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease for generations while balancing the anecdotal stories with detailed research information and history of the disease from its discovery to present.

McIntyre, who has tested positive for the genetic mutation and is guaranteed to develop early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, just as her mother and other family members have, will be sharing her story alongside her father, Steve McIntyre, and Kapsambelis. The presentation will create “an unparalleled opportunity for the Casper Community to learn about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease,” which in its early onset form affects people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s.

Registration for the event will begin at noon followed by Kapsambelis at 1 p.m. who will present “Heroes Among Us: How Everyday People are Changing the Course of Alzheimer’s History.” At 2, Shipley will present on “The Importance of Supporting Caregivers in Our Community” followed by a panel question and answer session at 2:30, which will include the McIntyres. Continuing Education Units are also available for those attending.

The event is hosted by Wyoming Dementia Care and the Casper College Goodstein Foundation Library. Other sponsors of the event include Mountain Plaza Assisted Living, Central Wyoming Counseling Center, and the University of Wyoming Center on Aging.

For more information call the Goodstein Foundation Library at 307-268-2269. The library is located on the Casper College campus.