Dedicated to ending the social isolation of people living with Lewy body dementia (LBD), Brian’s Buddies is a program that connects small groups of early to mid-stage individuals who have similar interests and matches volunteers to help facilitate regular online get-togethers.
When my husband, Brian, was newly diagnosed we wanted to keep him actively connected to people who shared his interests: in his case he loved to listen to and talk about music, books, current events, and sports. It could be tricky having typical conversations as the challenges of LBD grew. Being able to be himself, with others going through the same thing, removed all the pressure. What developed were close friendships with people who shared Brian’s interests. Brian looked forward to the weekly get-togethers with his new buddies, all of whom were living with Lewy body dementia. It was one of the highlights of his week.
Without the network built and nurtured by the Lewy Body Dementia Resource Center, finding three other gentlemen in Brian’s age range with similar interests would have been impossible.
Brian’s love of people and music inspired us to start Brian’s Buddies—so others would be able to enjoy meeting new friends in a worry-free environment.
Robin Strongin
rburmanstrongin@gmail.com
Brian’s Buddies: Connecting in the Key of Friendship
A Frequently Asked Questions Document for Brian’s Buddies is available by clicking here.
You can get started with Brian’s Buddies by going to Join Brian’s Buddies
To donate, please click here. We thank you!
This new program has been made possible through the generosity of: Lynn Hanna and the True Vine Experience Foundation, and by Robin Strongin, her family & friends
For information about the Lewy Body Dementia Resource Center
Norma Loeb
norma@lbdny.org