WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina | Carroll Campbell's wife speaks for the first time since his death

Carroll Campbell's wife speaks for the first time since his death

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - It has been almost four years since the death of former Governor Carroll Campbell.

His legacy is that of a strong statesmen, a keen businessman, and a devoted family man.

For the first time since his death, his beloved wife, Iris, is speaking out and hoping to bring awareness to Alzheimer's with her very personal, private story.

"It's been three years, haven't been able to talk about it. All of a sudden, he'd want me to get a grip," said Iris.

So Iris Campbell grabbed onto efforts to help raise money for programs and research. Alzheimer's took not only her husband, but most recently, her mother.

"It's a terrible disease. I think everyone should stop and look at this at some point in their life they'll have some they love come down with this disease," said Iris.

The numbers are staggering. In 2000, 67,000 people were diagnosed with Alzheimer's. That's expected to nearly double to 100,000 by the year 2025. Keep in mind there's still no cause and no cure.

"When you have cancer, which is so horrible, there are drugs that are there to treat it. We still don't have treatment for that, all you can do is get in programs," said Iris.

After the governor's diagnosis, programs taught the Campbells how to establish a daily "routine" of activities: golf and family.

"He recognized the boys, but I wasn't sure how much he remembered with the boys. And he loved seeing the grandchildren. His face would light up," said Iris.

But the disease progressed and Iris became the primary caregiver.

"I thought I was Superwoman. I could take care of him by myself and I did. I kept him home for six years," said iris.

Those private, painful years are why Iris has become an ambassador.

"The whole family, sons are involved, we do what we can. We promised their dad we'd do that," said Iris.

One way you can help is through the Carroll Campbell Memorial Golf Tournament. It's being held on Tuesday, April 28. Teams and sponsorships are still available. It's hosted by the Alzheimer's Association of South Carolina. They can be reached at 791-3430.

Reported by Hannah Horne

Posted by Jeremy Turnage