A poignant example of love and devotion, 74-year-old John Reichart of Indianola, Iowa, created a winter wonderland of magic for his wife, Joan, battling Alzheimer’s. The couple had been married more than 50 years, always cherishing the holiday season. John’s grand act was an attempt to get some cherished memories flowing back into Joan‘s head again since she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s four years ago.
John made the entire block feel like an entertaining wonderland by adorning the streets with sparkling lights, rainbow-coloured ornaments, and even full–scale Christmas displays. The very decorated Christmas tree and Santa Claus presentation just really helped to bring it all together to become that wonderful festive scene in itself that everyone soon became buzzing with chatter over.
“‘We got engaged on Christmas Eve in 1970, and she’s always loved Christmas,” John said to The Washington Post. “I hadn’t decorated much in recent years because I’ve been focused on taking care of Joan. But when she asked about the decorations, I knew I had to give her a Christmas she would never forget,” he explained.
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Neighbours Join the Holiday Spirit
It was such a warm gesture from John that his neighbours became very keen to help him realise his dream. Their neighbours were able to assist the couple in creating a festive wonderland complete with lights, ornaments, and other holiday decorations. Holiday cheer filled the neighbourhood and has made it a hotspot for visitors to visit and bask in the heartwarming story and the beautiful display.
A Tradition That Will Continue
John’s dedication to bringing happiness to his wife has become a tradition that he cherishes every year. Though Joan’s illness makes the situation quite tough, John is not ready to give up on the Christmas spirit. “If it wasn’t for Joan, I don’t know if I would’ve done it. But she wanted Christmas, and I’ll do anything to make her happy,” he said in an interview with CBS News.
Even in case Joan dies, John says that he would not stop decorating. “I’ll keep doing this as long as I can. Every Christmas, I want to see the whole block light up,” he declared.
The Love of Joan for Christmas Spirit
Joan, a pro-holiday season fanatic, was euphoric while explaining her husband’s behaviour: “I didn’t know what to think at first but I am glad he did it. I love him,” she said, heartened by John’s dedication as well as the festive Christmas aura that he brought into their neighbourhood.
