HEROES 2024 | Confessions

October 29 - November 28, 2024

Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver returns with Heroes Caring for Heroes and PBS special on military caregiving. Made possible through a partnership with CVS Health and TENA and now in its second year, this series continues to shine a light on the inspiring stories of military caregivers who support our nation's Veterans, showcasing their strength, love, and resilience.

A Special Series Presented By:

SPECIAL GUESTS

angelena Taylor

At 28, Detroit native and Ms. USA World Universal Ambassador Angelena Taylor became her father Benjamin's caregiver after a stroke left him unable to walk or speak. With no formal training, she managed his daily needs, from mobility assistance to in-home care, all while completing her graduate studies. Through persistence, she helped him regain his speech, and together, they adjusted to their new life.

This journey sparked Angelena’s passion for caregiver advocacy. She has since partnered with organizations like Caring Across Generations and The Elizabeth Dole Foundation, raising awareness about the challenges caregivers face nationwide.

EPISODE 102 - October 29, 2024

EPISODE 103 - November 5, 2024

Dr. Qwynn
Galaway-Salazar

In late August 2023, Qwynn received a call from her husband, Jose, a retired combat Veteran and current law enforcement officer, telling her he was having a major medical emergency. During long days and nights in the hospital, a diagnosed palsy severely impacted his mobility and vision. Sadly, at no time did anyone ask the question that could have changed the course of his care: "Have you served?"

Qwynn shares her story to help others feeling the weight of caregiving and the loneliness that often comes with it. She knows simple questions can open doors to a level of understanding and care that Combat Veterans so desperately need.

bob evans

EPISODE 104 - November 12, 2024

Drawing on 25.5 years of military service and spiritual guidance, Robert “Bob” Evans now cares for his wife Gretchen, who was severely wounded by a mortar in Afghanistan. Her injuries include hearing loss, traumatic brain injury (TBI), cognitive delay, and shrapnel wounds. Despite these challenges, they married soon after her release from the hospital.

Today, Bob's devotion to Gretchen’s physical and mental wellness has empowered her to become a nationally recognized advocate for service members and veterans. As her caregiver, Bob ensures she has the resources and support to fulfill her passion and purpose in life.

CRYSTAL LANE

EPISODE 105 - November 19, 2024

JP Lane, a retired Army Specialist, and his wife, Crystal, are an inspiring couple who travel the country sharing their powerful story. JP was severely injured in Afghanistan in 2011, losing both his legs and suffering numerous other injuries from and IED explosion.

With Crystal’s support, J.P has become a motivational speaker, musician, and adaptive sport athlete. Together, they aim to inspire others to overcome adversity and never give up. Their story is a testament to resilience, love, and the power of determination.

THOM DELEUW

EPISODE 106 - November 26, 2024

Paratrooper Jack DeLeuw barely survived his first motorcycle crash. But he fought his way back onto active duty and back onto the motorcycle, only to suffer another crash years later which left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Jack’s dad, Thom, a 6-year Army veteran, retired from his 34-year career as a law enforcement officer to become a certified caregiver. Now that they live together, they start their day with a morning brief. Jack remains adamant that events like participating in the Warrior Games wouldn't have happened without his father by his side.