Almost 5 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease; 15 million are caregivers. Is someone you love dealing with dementia as a patient or caregiver?

If so, then you probably want to invite them to this month’s Friends of the Library book discussion. Alzheimer’s is a terrible disease that takes one of the most valuable pieces of a person’s life — their memories. It is also the third leading cause of death in America. The havoc that this disease wreaks is not limited to the victim. The long tendrils of this disease reach deep into the lives of all of the victim’s loved ones and caretakers, because taking care of a loved one ravaged by this disease can be both difficult and heartbreaking. The isolation in facing this disease can also be debilitating.

If there is no one to relate to, situations often seem far bleaker than they are, but Dr. Mary Cail has written a book that counteracts this perception. It offers true accounts of people dealing with Alzheimer’s and advice concerning the care of these patients. Cail will be at the Headquarters Library Pate Room, which is located at 300 Maiden Ln., on Oct. 9, from 7 until 9 p.m., to discuss her book.

Sponsored by Friends of the Library, Cail, who is a counselor, educator, dementia support-group leader and author, will visit the Headquarters Library to talk about her book The All-Weather Friend’s Guide to Alzheimer’s Disease. This book is not a medical book, but a compilation of touching, relevant and true stories that provide the readers with real life advice and understanding for the unique and difficult situation they face.

The advice offered in the book is designed for all stages of the disease. The stories related in the book are optimistic and straightforward, but full of many helpful tips from diagnosis to the end stages of the disease for both caregivers and patients.

Steven T. DeKosky, M.D., a member of the Alzheimer’s Association National Board of Directors described the book as, “Well-written and compelling. An accurate portrayal for the person who wants to understand the experience of Alzheimer’s disease and be equipped to help both patients and caregivers.”

Kelly Tomita is the library’s marketing director, and she explains that the Friends of the Library hosts authors every month.

Tomita said, “Typically the Friends of the Library have their monthly author visit. Most commonly it is a lecture with questions and answers.”

Those who attend are able to hear the author of this touching book explain her motivation and intentions. Additionally, Cail will be available for any questions regarding her book or lecture. This is a valuable opportunity for people affected by this disease to receive an enlightening point of view and helpful tips to make their lives easier.

For more information visit the library website at www.cumberland.lib.nc.us. The book is $15 and is available for purchase online at the website allweatherfriend.com/book.html.