We watched the special Glen Campbell show on CNN Sunday night. It was called "I'll Be Me."
Remembering Glen's first appearance on "The Smothers Brothers Show" decades ago and his wonderful first hits "The Wichita Lineman" and "By The Time I Get To Phoenix," it was depressing to see the impact Alzheimer's has had on his later years.
Glen Campbell originally came across as a super talented, clean-cut, nice-looking young man. He proceeded to have tremendous success with recordings, TV shows, and even movies. His songs were hits across the nation and his popularity became worldwide.
Later in his career, he had some unfavorable publicity related to marital problems and drinking. Many people were surprised by his behavior. He was married and divorced a couple of times before marrying his present wife, who is now caring for him in dealing with his rapidly diminishing mental abilities.
He was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, and it has progressed to the point that he can never perform again.
Of course, everyone knows about his growing up in Delight, Ark., and most of us have been proud of his being an Arkansas product.
It was sad seeing him deteriorate to his present condition after his rise to fame and fortune. All people eventually lose some of their former good looks, but the mental damage that he has suffered prevents him from recognizing his own family and lifelong friends.
His personality has undergone major changes, but, surprisingly -- at least at the time the movie was filmed -- he can still play the guitar.
The last show of Glen Campbell was motivated by a desire of his family to show people what Alzheimer's does, and to encourage the development of a cure. So many families are experiencing this devastating disease with one of their loved ones that a cure must be found. Let us hope it is soon.
-- Louis Houston is a resident of Siloam Springs. His book "The Grape-Toned Studebaker" is available locally and from Amazon.com. Send any questions or comments to [email protected] or call 524-6926. The opinions expressed are those of the author.
Editorial on 07/01/2015