BOOMERS 'R HEROES Makes the Videos !!!!

My hat's off to Alice and Rudy, two Heroes who shared their stories during a roundtable discussion for the National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA; www.thefamilycaregiver.org) and Forest Labs on a project for Alzheimer’s disease caregivers. NFCA is a non-profit organization that provides education and support to the more than 65 million Americans who care for a loved one with a chronic illness, disability, or the frailties of old age.  As a group, we had a great showing of 2 members , 50% of the group, and this says a lot for how we're doing in Philadelphia....yaaaaay us!!!

Rudy, introduced to me by Kathy & Chucky, came to the session after having only talked with me over the phone, was willing to share his story about his dear mom's illness and what a story.  That's a Hero.

Alice attended our first meeting at North Penn Baptist Church on 4/19, and recognizing that she had a story to tell that would possibly help someone else through these muddied waters of caring for an Alzheimer's patient decided to participate and did an outstanding job of expressing herself and contributing to the discussion, as well.  That's a Hero.

Both Alice and Rudy had some great information to share as they exchanged and conversed with the Haggertys were very animated and emotionally charged. Thank you both for your enthusiasm and encouraging demeanor.

Silverstone Bed & Breakfast in Chestnut Hill (www.silverstonestay.com) hosted the video session and everyone involved had a great time.  We also met two other caregivers, the Haggertys, who participated with their experiences and lessons learned.
As a group leader, I am very pleased that we were contacted and invited to participate in this program. 

Respectfully Submitted,
Jean Kirkley