Nearly 50 years ago, Barbara Austin met her husband, James, while serving in the Air Force. Now, as a retired Major, she’s taken on a new mission: caring for James, a retired Lieutenant Colonel living with advanced Parkinson’s due to Agent Orange exposure during his service in Vietnam. In addition to supporting James, Barbara is dedicated to helping other veteran family caregivers navigate their own journeys.
No One Should Face Caregiving Challenges Alone
As a facilitator of Duet’s new veteran Finding Meaning and Hope signature 10-week video discussion series, Barbara shares her unique knowledge and experience with veteran family caregivers. The discussion series features videos based on the groundbreaking book, Loving Someone Who Has Dementia: How to Find Hope While Coping with Stress and Grief by Dr. Pauline Boss, Ph.D., a leading expert on caregiver grief.
Barbara understands the tough decisions caregivers face, including the possibility of moving loved ones into care facilities. Guided by the core military value of “leave no one behind,” she ensures James gets the emotional and physical support he needs, even in difficult moments.
Your Support Changes Lives
With your help, Duet provides free services like personalized guidance, educational webinars, support groups, and resources that transform caregiving from overwhelming to manageable. For Barbara and so many others, this support brings connection, hope, and a renewed sense of strength to care for their loved ones.
Barbara reflects, “Duet helps me find meaning in caregiving, even in the toughest moments. Thanks to their support, I’m not facing this journey alone.”
Compassion Today, Hope for Tomorrow
Your year-end donation ensures that veteran caregivers and family members of those with dementia have access to the vital resources they need. Whether you give your time, treasure, or both, your gift delivers compassion and hope to families who need it most.
Thank you for making a difference in the lives of caregivers like Barbara.