"The Present": Honoring Grief, Legacy, and Connection After Dementia with C. Nathaniel Brown

In this heartwarming and deeply reflective episode, hosts Marianne Sciucco and Christy Byrne Yates are joined by award-winning filmmaker, bestselling author, and dementia advocate C. Nathaniel (Chuck) Brown, to discuss his touching short film “The Present.” Centered around the holidays, “The Present” explores the profound grief and complex emotions that follow the loss of a loved one to dementia. Together, this panel discussion, which includes film festival participants Susie Singer Carter and Kitty Norton and others, delves into the impact of preserving memories, supporting caregivers, and navigating the waves of grief during the holiday season.

Key Themes & Takeaways

1. Navigating Grief Through the Holidays

• The episode provides a compassionate space to talk about the unique ways families experience grief after losing someone to dementia, especially when “the firsts” of holidays and milestones arrive. 
• The importance of being intentional with memory-making, and allowing yourself and others grace during emotionally charged holiday gatherings.

2. Legacy and Memory Preservation

• Chuck shares the inspiration behind “The Present” — encouraging families to record stories, capture everyday moments, and find creative ways to leave a legacy for future generations. The episode discusses different approaches: written notes, photo books, video recordings, and even collaborative family projects like Christmas books.
• Emphasizes that “the present” is both the gift of NOW and an opportunity to create memories that comfort and connect after loss.

3. Filling the Silence Around Dementia

• The hosts and guest highlight the stigma and silence that often surrounds dementia and how storytelling—through books and film—can break barriers and offer support to grieving families.

4. Compassionate Support for Caregivers and Families

• The discussion reinforces that grief after dementia is unique and ongoing.
• Chuck and the group discuss supporting one another without assumptions—acknowledging that everyone’s grieving process is different.
• Practical advice for loved ones: Don’t shy away from mentioning the loss. Extend empathy and connection—sometimes just being present is enough.

5. The Role of Art and Community in Healing

• Chuck shares his work with Exposed Dementia Inc., using the arts as a tool for healing, education, and advocacy.
• Upcoming dementia-friendly events, including conferences, art exhibits, and ways to get involved.

Resources & Further Support

• Watch “The Present” and other festival films: AlzAuthors Film Festival. Links expire 12/31/2025.
• Explore more from C. Nathaniel Brown including details on the Exposed Dementia Conference Film Festival & Art Exhibit (March 2026) at Exposed Dementia Inc.
• Discover our dementia resources: Over 150 podcast episodes, 100's of quality books, blogs, and more at AlzAuthors.com.

Learn about the Moderators

Marianne Sciucco 

Christy Byrne Yates 

About the Podcast 

AlzAuthors is the global community of authors writing about Alzheimer’s and dementia from personal experience to light the way for others. Our podcast introduces you to our authors who share their stories and insights to provide knowledge, comfort, and support. If our authors’ stories move you, please leave a review. And don’t forget to share our podcast with family and friends on their own dementia journeys.

Ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast belong to the speakers and not AlzAuthors. Always consult your healthcare provider and legal and financial consultants for advice on any of the topics covered here.

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