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The man, John Reichart, adorned the streets with twinkling lights, colourful ornaments, and life-sized Christmas decorations.
Joan was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s four years ago. (Photo Credit: Instagram)
In a heartwarming act of love and compassion, a man in Indianola, Iowa, went above and beyond to spread Christmas cheer for his 53-year-old wife, Joan, who is battling Alzheimer’s disease. Joan was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s four years ago, and to create a festive atmosphere and evoke cherished memories for her, John transformed their entire block into a winter wonderland. The man, John Reichart, adorned the streets with twinkling lights, colourful ornaments, and life-sized Christmas decorations. He even erected a stunning Christmas tree and Santa Claus, creating a magical ambience that brought joy to the neighbourhood.
“We got engaged on Christmas Eve in 1970, and she’s always loved Christmas,” said John Reichart to The Washington Post. “I hadn’t done much holiday decorating since we moved back because I’d been working so hard to look after her and keep her happy. But when she wondered about the decorations, I thought she deserved to see some Christmas lights this year,” he added.
It was this moment when he made it his mission to make a winter wonderland for his wife and create as many unforgettable memories for his wife.
While speaking to CBS News, the 74-year-old said, “If it wasn’t for my wife, I don’t know if I would’ve done it. But she wanted Christmas, so I’d give it to her. I’d do anything to make her happy.”
Moved by his yearly ritual, tonnes of their neighbours have joined hands to volunteer on his project. They help the couple in creating the Christmas wonderland by setting up lights, Christmas decorations, and more on the block. Admirers also visit the place to check out the holiday cheer.
They have now set up a post box for them to receive Christmas cards from people around the world who want to support their story. The neighbours plan to give out the cards to their neighbours to read them to his wife, the media outlet reported.
While interacting with CBS News, a few neighbours expressed that they were ‘very blessed’ to have the cheerful man as a neighbour, adding, “That’s what Christmas is all about.”
Furthermore, Reichart exclaimed that even if his wife passes away, he has no plans to slow down. He would continue doing this in her memory as long as he could do it. Every Christmas, he wants to see the whole block light up.
Expressing her views about the decoration, Joan said that she loved the holiday spirit her husband had brought to the neighbourhood. “I didn’t know what to think. But I’m glad he did it. I love him,” she added.
