Allison Breininger, an experienced educator with an MA in Education, took on a new role at 31: caregiver for her husband, Sean, who was diagnosed with the rare genetic disease Fanconi Anemia. Throughout the past eleven years, she supported him through a bone marrow transplant and various cancers. This journey made Allison realize the lack of support for caregivers, leading her to establish the non-profit, The Negative Space, to transform caregiver perception and assistance.

The unexpected twist in their lives significantly challenged their resilience and threatened their dreams. Despite this, Allison's dedication to her husband and herself remained a shining light amidst uncertainty. As a resilient caregiver, she navigates the delicate balance between productivity and self-care amidst challenges. Her powerful story showcases the impact of love and resilience in adversity.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Find practical strategies to overcome caregiver challenges and get the support you need.
• Discover how caregiving affects mental well-being and learn practical steps for maintaining a healthy mindset.
• Discover the value of a strong support network and see how it enhances your caregiving journey.
• Discover ways to find rest and relaxation while caregiving.
• Discover tips for managing caregiving while prioritizing your well-being.

About Allison:

Allison Breininger holds an MA in Education and spent two decades in various roles within the field. At the age of 31, she became a caregiver for her husband, Sean, who was diagnosed with the rare genetic disease Fanconi Anemia. Throughout the past eleven years, she has supported him through a bone marrow transplant and battles with cancer affecting his tongue, throat, gums, bladder, and skin. This firsthand experience has shown her the vital yet overlooked and unsupported role of caregivers. Motivated by her insights, Allison established the non-profit organization, The Negative Space, to change the perception and support for caregivers.

Through The Negative Space, Allison sheds light on caregiving realities, offers direct services to caregivers, and educates and equips their supporters with practical tools and strategies. She co-hosts the In Sickness podcast, provides individual coaching nationwide, facilitates support groups, partners with organizations, and sells caregiver gift boxes.

Connect with Allison 

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Podcast URL
Blog

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Richard Lui is an accomplished American news anchor, journalist, speaker, and our guest this week! With a career spanning over three decades and notable contributions to humanitarian reporting and the film industry, Richard offered valuable insights drawn from his personal experience as a caregiver for both his parents. We discussed the evolving role of caregivers, the importance of open dialogue about caregiving experiences, and the need for societal appreciation and support for caregivers.

Richard delved into the impact of caregiving on personal relationships, sharing strategies to maintain connections despite the challenges. An unexpected discussion point was the intersection between caregiving and culinary skills, exploring how even a simple meal can bring comfort and joy in the caregiving journey. This conversation emphasized the necessity to nurture relationships and find happiness in small things amidst the complexities of caregiving.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Learn about the challenges and experiences that caregivers face. This can provide a level of understanding and support. 
• Understand the importance of open discussions about caregiving. This can lead to better care and less stress for both the caregiver and the person they are caring for. 
• Discover the change in society's view of caregiving and how it affects our way of supporting caregivers in our community. 
• Understand the impact of caregiving on personal relationships, as well as tactics to keep and improve these relationships while handling caregiving responsibilities. 

About Richard:

Richard Lui, an award-winning journalist with over 30 years of experience in media, technology, and business, currently serves as news anchor at MSNBC and NBC News since 2010, previously at CNN Worldwide. Before journalism, Richard spent 15 years in business, launching six brands across three tech cycles and patenting a fintech model in 2003. He has held board seats for a fintech firm, a Silicon Valley AI firm, and various non-profits, including AIISF and Freedom United. Richard is a fellow at the National Association of Corporate Directors, one of 200 US State Dept Traveling Speakers, a Senior Fellow at think tank GMF, and ambassador for NGOs focused on gender equality and human trafficking. In 2021, his first book, "Enough About Me," was published by HarperCollins Zondervan, highlighting the power of selflessness. His directorial debut film, "Sky Blossom," was the most widely distributed documentary in 2021. Inspired by his own long-distance caregiving for his father, Sky Blossom focuses on student caregivers in diverse American military families. His second film, "Hidden Wounds," delves into mental health and is set to launch in November 2022. Richard serves as an ambassador for caregiving for the Elizabeth Dole Foundation's Hidden Heroes campaign, AARP, and Alzheimer's Association.

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Vantage Point Foundation (VPF) is a nonprofit organization serving post-9/11 veterans and veterans’ spouses and partners across South Carolina as they transition out of military service. VPF believes that three things are necessary to fully reintegrate into civilian life: Community, Growth, and Purpose. We also think that spouses and partners are often overlooked and that providing both veterans and their spouses and partners with programs and support is necessary for the health and well-being of the family unit. 

Our programs are designed to address transition challenges, identify obstacles, and provide the support and connection that enables veterans and their spouses and partners to thrive in civilian life.

Contact Information for Organization: 

Address: 

P.O. Box 31224 

Charleston, SC 29417

 

Phone: (843) 790-3131

Email:

[email protected]

Social Media: The handle is: @Vantage Point Foundation for FB, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 

Website: https://vantagepointfoundation.org 
                Home - Vantage Point Foundation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vantagepointfoundation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vantagepointfoundation/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/vantage-point-foundation
YouTube: @vantagepoint3478   Vantage Point - YouTube

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In the blink of an eye, Jessica Allen's life changed forever. One phone call, one moment, threw her into a role she never expected - that of a military caregiver when her husband was injured in Afghanistan. As she navigated this new life and family situation, Jessica demonstrated resilience and strength, using humor as a coping mechanism during the emotional upheaval. All the while, she worked tirelessly to maintain her marriage and support her family. 

Jessica has a longstanding background in tax preparation and financial counseling. Her unique position as a military spouse and caregiver to her husband, Army veteran Chaz, has provided her with firsthand experience in dealing with the difficulties of caring for an injured loved one. Jessica has used this experience to write a book offering financial guidance for military and veteran caregivers. She has been acknowledged as a FINRA military spouse fellow and an Elizabeth Dole Foundation Fellow. Jessica's knowledge of the financial and emotional pressures faced by military caregivers makes her a valuable resource for others in similar situations. Her advice and advocacy work offers practical help and encouragement to military caregivers looking for guidance on their journey.

In this episode, you can:

• Hear relatable military caregiver experiences that will make you feel understood and supported.
• Learn practical strategies for overcoming caregiving challenges, empowering you to provide the best care for your injured loved one.
• Discover the value of humor in the caregiving journey and how it can help reduce stress and bring joy to both you and your loved one.
• Draw inspiration from the resilience of military families who have faced similar challenges and find hope in their stories of strength and perseverance.
• Explore support systems and resources available specifically for military caregivers, helping you navigate the complex world of caregiving and access the help you need.

About Jessica:

Jessica Allen is an Accredited Financial Counselor who also recently completed a Master’s in History from Liberty University in August 2023. She operates her own tax preparation and financial counseling service in Middle Tennessee. 

She obtained her BS in Political Science and History from Kentucky Wesleyan College. Jessica has prepared income tax returns for over twenty years. She is a 2011 FINRA Military Spouse Fellow and completed her Accredited Financial Counseling licensing in 2013. She is also a 2014 Elizabeth Dole Foundation Fellow. She authored Financial Fitness for Military and Veteran Caregivers in 2017. She provided the content for AARP’s Financial Workbooks for Caregivers. 

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Amy Goyer is AARP's national family and caregiving expert and a returning guest on the show. Her caregiving journey, which began when she was just 21, can be found in episode 22 of the podcast. With her extensive experience and expertise in aging and families, including caregiving, grandparenting, and multi-generational issues, she has become a trusted figure in the field. 

Enhancing the quality of life for all as we age—not just serving our nearly 38 million members—is AARP's mission. At its heart, the work that AARP and its affiliates do can be summed up in just 12 words: “We fight for and equip each individual to live their best life.”

AARP is especially proud to serve our United States veterans, active-duty service members, and military families. Our Veterans and Military Families initiative offers tools tailored to the military community for family caregiving, accessing earned military-service benefits, fighting fraud, and finding meaningful employment through AARP’s Veterans & Military Spouses Job Center.

Website:www.aarp.org/caregiving

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/aarpfamilycaregivers/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aarp/

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aarp/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AARP

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/AARP 

Blog URL: https://blog.aarp.org/ 

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It was just another day browsing the fishing aisle at a local Walmart when Kasey Kelly had a  chance encounter that led her on a path of strength, sacrifice, and love. She opens up about her husband's deployment and his traumatic brain injury, shedding light on the challenges faced by caregivers in the military community. As a military spouse, she braves the stormy waters of TBI caregiving, battles neglect from the military, discovers her own inner strength, and works tirelessly to create stability for her husband and children despite the trials of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Kasey is a wife, a mom, and a dedicated caregiver. With a background in environmental science and education, she brings a fresh perspective to her caregiving journey. But her life took an unexpected turn when her husband, Stephen, was injured in the line of duty. Since then, Kasey has been by his side, fighting for his care and dealing with the challenges of his TBI and PTSD diagnosis. Her determination and resilience shine through as she shares her story and gives us invaluable insights into the world of caregiving for someone with TBI and PTSD.

In this episode, you can:

• Discover your resilience as a TBI caregiver and find inspiration to navigate the unique challenges you face.
• Gain insights and practical strategies for navigating TBI caregiving situations, allowing you to provide the best care and support for your loved ones.
• Learn the importance of prioritizing self-care as a caregiver and how it positively impacts your ability to care for others.
• Explore the various support systems available specifically for military caregivers, providing a sense of community and resources during your caregiving journey.
• Find joy and fulfillment in everyday activities as a TBI caregiver, learning how to make the most of each moment and create meaningful connections with your loved ones.

About Kasey:

Kasey Kelly hails from Southern California. She pursued her higher education at the Evergreen State College in Washington State, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science and Education. Prior to meeting Stephen, Kasey dedicated her time to serving in AmeriCorps and working within the non-profit sector. She is a proud mother to two boys and a loving pet parent to four dogs, three cats, and a flock of 14 chickens.

Connect with Kasey:

Linked In: linkedin.com/in/kasey-kelly-

Healing Strides: https://www.healingstridesofva.org/

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The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers; the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured veterans. 

Founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit and faith communities to recognize military caregivers’ service and promote their well-being.

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Amy Buschatz's caregiver journey began when her husband, Luke, faced a life-altering traumatic brain injury (TBI) and PTSD during his Army Airborne Ranger deployment in 2009. In 2016, Amy and Luke knew something had to change.  They made a radical reset and moved the family to Alaska (sight unseen) to support Luke on his healing journey.  Little did she realize healing would come for the entire family.

Amy candidly shares the complexities of their relationship, the challenges they encountered, and how they coped together. We explore the ups and downs of Amy's caregiving experience, including moments of betrayal and the process of rebuilding trust. Amy also discusses how she used physical activities and therapy to navigate the emotional landscape while balancing her caregiving responsibilities with her own need for personal healing.

Amy talks about her experience as “two caregivers,” one caring for her spouse and raising two children and another supporting an independent spouse. Amy confessed it all - touching on mental health care, setting boundaries, and available resources for disabled U.S. military veterans and their spouses. 

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Enhance your caregiving experience by understanding the challenges and dynamics involved.
• Prioritize your own well-being with self-care techniques that will support your role as a caregiver.
• Discover the resources and tools available to make your caregiving journey more manageable and effective.
• Learn how to balance caregiving responsibilities and other aspects of your life.
• Develop self-awareness and effective communication skills to navigate the complexities of caregiving relationships.

About Amy:

Amy is a reporter for the Anchorage Daily News and the founder of the Mat-Su Sentinel, a non-profit startup newsroom in Alaska. She is the host and producer of the Humans Outside podcast, sharing what she loves - being outside and running.

But what in the world took her to Alaska - Caregiving. Her husband Luke sustained a TBI/PTSD during his 2009 deployment as an Army Airborne Ranger, though it would take years to understand its impact on Luke and their family.   

So - in 2016, Amy, Luke, and their two sons - Huck and David - moved to Alaska sight unseen to help Luke find healing, Amy says in the process, they found healing for everyone. 

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Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) began in 2003 as a small, grassroots effort providing simple care and comfort items to the hospital bedsides of the first wounded service members returning home from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. As their post-service needs evolved, so have our programs and services. Today, through our direct programs in mental health, career counseling, and long-term rehabilitative care, along with our advocacy efforts, we improve the lives of millions of warriors and their families.

This effort requires the passion and commitment of friends, supporters, and like-minded organizations that enable us to fulfill our mission. With their collaboration and support, we strive to ensure that when those who serve come home, they’re afforded every opportunity to be as successful as a civilian as they were in the military.

Social Media Contacts 

Website: woundedwarriorproject.org

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/wwp 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwp 

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/WoundedWarriorProjec 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wwp/?hl=en

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wounded-warrior-project/

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Pam and Mike Estes are military caregivers with an extraordinary story of dedication and resilience. At age 19, their son Jason, a brave veteran, faced severe challenges with a traumatic brain injury and burns during his service in Iraq. From the life-altering phone call that started it all, Pam and Mike's journey has been marked by their strength and determination, all while navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.

Their story isn't just a testament to their family's love and commitment; it's an inspiring tale for military families who find themselves in similar caregiving roles. Pam and Mike's experiences underscore the importance of seeking support, adapting to changing circumstances, and never giving up in the face of adversity.

In this episode, we'll delve into their remarkable journey, uncovering the valuable insights and guidance they've gained over the last 17 years. Join us as we explore their story, drawing inspiration from their unyielding spirit and discovering the essential lessons they have to offer for anyone on their caregiving journey.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the unique caregiving experiences of military families and gain insights into their journeys of resilience and strength.
• Explore the challenges caregivers face and learn how they navigate the healthcare system, inspiring your own caregiving journey.
• Understand the importance of support organizations for military caregivers and learn how they can provide valuable resources and guidance in your caregiving role.
• Find out how to discover activities and therapies that can drive recovery for your loved ones with brain injuries, boosting their progress and well-being.
• Discover self-care strategies for caregivers in challenging situations, empowering you to take care of yourself while caring for your loved one with a brain injury.

About Pam and Mike:

Caregivers for son Jason, who was severely injured in an IED blast in Baghdad, Iraq on December 11, 2005. Jason suffered a traumatic brain injury, 2nd and 3rd degree burns to 60% of his body, and multiple leg fractures leading to a lower leg amputation. 

Both worked at full-time jobs (Mike, a Systems Engineer, and Pam, a Payroll Manager) while caring for Jason until their move from MD to VA in 2016. Following the move to VA, Mike and Pam have continued their caregiver roles and advocating for continued therapies. Mike has participated in the Wounded Warrior Project Caregiver’s Summit (which led to caregiver benefits). Pam was a member representing caregivers on the VA Advisory Committee of OIF/OEF Veterans and Families appointed by VA Secretary James Nicholson.

Mike and Pam also have a daughter and son-in-law and, in 2020, welcomed a grandson.

Wounded Warrior Project
www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Matt Schultz (based out of Jack

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