In an emotional and deeply personal moment that left fans shaken, Maurice Benard, the beloved star of General Hospital, shared a heartbreaking announcement

that touched on themes of loss, memory, and the painful realities of Alzheimer’s disease. During the latest episode of his popular YouTube series State Of Mind, the actor

was joined by his General Hospital co-star Vernee Watson, who portrays the ever-supportive Aunt Stella. But it was a revelation about a former guest, Kyle Oldham,

the daughter of iconic actress Lee Meriwether, that struck a chord with fans and offered a sobering glimpse into the challenges faced by those battling this devastating illness.

A Devastating Diagnosis: Alzheimer’s Hits Close to Home

Maurice Benard, who is known for his raw and candid discussions on State Of Mind, took a moment before diving into a deep conversation with Watson to share some personal and tragic news regarding Oldham. In a tearful and poignant admission, Benard revealed that Oldham, a past guest on the show, had received a devastating diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

Oldham, who has previously appeared on State of Mind to discuss her life and experiences, had come to Benard with the heartbreaking news that her mother, the legendary Lee Meriwether, was struggling with Alzheimer’s. For those unfamiliar with Meriwether’s illustrious career, she is a household name, having made a lasting impact in both the entertainment and cultural spheres. The actress won the title of Miss America in 1955, and her acting legacy includes portraying Catwoman in the iconic 1960s Batman television series, as well as her role as Betty Jones on the long-running detective series Barnaby Jones.

To soap opera fans, Lee Meriwether is also remembered for her brief but memorable stint on All My Children, where she portrayed Ruth Martin, stepping into the role while the beloved Mary Fickett was on leave. Her career in both television and film is a testament to her talent, grace, and resilience.

But it was the news about Meriwether’s daughter, Kyle Oldham, that would set the tone for the emotional conversation that followed. Benard shared that Kyle, who had been a guest on his show in the past, had informed him that she had been diagnosed with the same cruel disease that her mother was battling.

“We decided that she was going to come on State Of Mind again,” Benard explained, “so the audience could see with their own eyes what Alzheimer’s does to someone. I’ll have her come in every six months or so, just so people can witness the slow progression of the disease.”

Benard’s voice wavered as he continued, clearly struggling to hold back the emotion that was welling up inside him. “The reality of it all really hit me when I realized that one day, Kyle won’t be able to come back,” he confessed, his eyes moistening as he paused for a moment to gather himself. “I started to cry because I came to understand that there will come a time when we won’t see her anymore. It could be a couple of years, or less… But it will be sad, and it will be beautiful in its own way.”

Maurice Benard’s Personal Connection to Alzheimer’s

For Maurice Benard, this announcement carries a weight that goes far beyond the sorrow of a friend’s diagnosis. In his own life, Benard has faced the harsh reality of Alzheimer’s in a very personal way. His father, Humberto Benard, also battled the disease before passing away. Maurice has previously opened up about the struggles his family faced during his father’s battle, and now, with Kyle Oldham’s diagnosis, he finds himself reliving some of those painful memories.

Fans of Benard’s General Hospital character, Sonny Corinthos, will remember the emotional storyline in which Sonny’s father, Mike Corbin (played by Max Gail), was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The storyline was incredibly well-received by fans and critics alike, due in large part to the authenticity and raw emotion that Benard brought to the role. The scenes between Sonny and Mike, as they navigated the heartbreaking progression of Mike’s disease, left viewers in tears, and many fans expressed their gratitude to the show for shedding light on such an important issue.

For Benard, playing out the Alzheimer’s storyline with Mike was more than just acting—it was a way to process his own grief and connect with an audience that shared similar experiences. His personal connection to the disease made the portrayal of Sonny’s relationship with Mike all the more impactful, as it mirrored his own experiences with his father.

“Alzheimer’s doesn’t just affect the person who has it; it affects everyone around them,” Benard said during his conversation with Vernee Watson. “Watching Kyle go through this with her mom, and knowing what it was like for me with my dad, brings it all back. The pain, the confusion, the loss… it’s a journey that no one should have to go through, but sadly, so many of us do.”

The Beauty of Sharing the Story

While the news about Kyle Oldham’s diagnosis is undoubtedly heartbreaking, Benard and Oldham have decided to use their platform to raise awareness and educate the public about Alzheimer’s. By bringing Kyle back on State Of Mind every few months, they hope to give viewers a firsthand look at how the disease progresses and the toll it takes on both the individual and their loved ones.

“We want people to understand that Alzheimer’s is not just a disease that happens to old people,” Benard explained. “It doesn’t discriminate. It affects everyone, and the more people know about it, the more we can help those who are struggling.”

In a way, Benard’s decision to publicly share Kyle’s journey is both an act of love and an act of courage. Alzheimer’s is a deeply personal and often isolating experience for families, and by opening up about their struggles, they are offering others a sense of community and solidarity. It’s a powerful reminder that, even in the face of one of life’s most difficult challenges, there can still be moments of beauty, connection, and hope.

A Heartfelt Farewell

As the interview with Vernee Watson continued, Benard’s thoughts lingered on the inevitable future and the bittersweet reality of Alzheimer’s. “There will be a time when I won’t be able to have her [Kyle] on the show anymore,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “But we’re going to make the most of every moment we have, and we’re going to share that with the world. Because that’s what people need to see. That’s what we need to remember.”

Maurice Benard’s heartfelt announcement on State Of Mind not only brought tears to the eyes of fans but also reminded us of the power of storytelling—both on and off the screen. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is light to be found, and in the midst of loss, there is beauty to be celebrated. Through his own journey and his commitment to sharing Kyle’s, Benard is giving a voice to those living with Alzheimer’s and a platform for others to understand, empathize, and support.

As the days go by, Benard’s fans will continue to watch, waiting for updates on Kyle’s condition and hoping for more moments of clarity in a world that often feels clouded by this cruel disease. One thing is certain: Maurice Benard’s State Of Mind will continue to be a source of comfort, truth, and inspiration for all who are touched by its powerful message.