Personal Stories

Veteran Caregiver Hero Award: A Loyal and Kindhearted Son, Andre M.

Posted by Chad Birt on Fri Feb 16 2024

Andre’s Dad, Samuel, was diagnosed with dementia about seven years ago. Shortly after, Andre retired early from a career he loved to serve as a full time caregiver. He says it was a tough choice that significantly impacted his family, but he wouldn’t have it any other way.Read More

Companion Caregiver Hero Award: A Compassionate and Inspiring Partner, Jason C.

Posted by Chad Birt on Fri Feb 16 2024

When Jason Castro’s girlfriend was diagnosed with cerebellar hypoplasia, his life changed overnight. Other people his age might have ended the relationship, but Jason gladly accepted the role of caregiver and is 100% committed.Read More

Parent Caregiver Hero Award: A Loving and Dedicated Mother, Stephanie Stanley

Posted by Chad Birt on Fri Feb 16 2024

Peyton was born with jaundice and began having seizures at about two months old. Doctors originally told Stephanie and her husband there was nothing to worry about; Peyton’s MRIs looked perfect. But after seeing another neurologist, the family learned that Peyton was having infantile spasms, a catastrophic form of childhood epilepsy that causes irreversible damage to the developing brain.Read More

Caregiver of the Year Award: A Life Dedicated to the Service of Others, Karen Yingling

Posted by Chad Birt on Fri Feb 16 2024

Karen Yingling began caregiving more than 20 years ago when her mom was first diagnosed with dementia. What began as a mild cognitive impairment, quickly progressed to Alzheimer’s disease, inspiring Karen to selflessly step in and support both of her parents.Read More