OPERATION: NEVER FORGET!
OPERATION: NEVER FORGET!
Show Details
OPERATION: NEVER FORGET! focuses on Veterans with Memory Loss. This series is dedicated to creating a better understanding about issues of Memory Loss in Veterans, support for the Primary Caregiver and encouragement for other family members and friends to step forward to assist as advocates and in other ways. Recurring guests will include the President of the Ladies Auxiliary VFW and Veteran Service Officers who will discuss issues and resources available to these Veterans, their caregivers and families. The ultimate goal is to offer concrete actions that will lighten this heavy load just a bit!
OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – “START THE CONVERSATION”
What if we, as Caregivers, started a conversation in our own homes about the work we do on a daily basis. What if we suggested that our kids take on a small role? What if families were more prepared to jointly take on the Caregiving Role?
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story … Read more about this episode...
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Biography
Operation: Never Forget! with Dan Koffman
Dan Koffman is a creative communicator. Throughout his more than 45 year career, he has communicated as a graphic, commercial and fine artist. He has designed and marketed consumer products and acted as community activist. Recently he created “Simple Pleasures for Special Seniors ®,” a series of books designed specifically for people with memory loss.
Born in 1950 in Los Angeles, California, Koffman focused first on industrial design and architecture, winning a Gold Medal for his building designs at the California State Fair in 1966 and serving as a draftsman on the Mariner Mars Project – all before completing high school. From 1970 to 1990 he applied his bold and colorful artistic style to over 1000 internationally marketed consumer products for his company Bibi Products, Incorporated.
In 1990 he established Bottomline Communications, an international advertising agency in Monterey, California, working with corporations worldwide (including Honeywell, Diners Club, Libbey Glass, Toshiba and leading financial institutions). Koffman is known for injecting unexpected and humorous twists into otherwise traditional marketing, merchandising and advertising campaigns. He opened his first art gallery and studio in Monterey in 1999 and his second in 2006 after relocating to the Pacific Northwest.
Giving back to the community both locally and internationally has always been an integral part of Koffman’s life. To that end, he designed the Flag of Peace and Freedom, painted for peace with an African elephant, launched the Golden Rule Activist project and has spearheaded various other community programs.
The experience of witnessing the progression of his father’s dementia and the toll it extracted on his mother, who was the primary caregiver, and on his entire family registered deeply in his heart and mind. Koffman says, “I wanted to do something that would have a positive effect on other families going through this same difficult experience.” “The Simple Pleasures for Special Seniors®” and “Life In The US MILITARY” books are the realization of that goal.
His efforts on behalf of Military Veterans have been greatly amplified by his partnership with the Ladies Auxiliary VFW National Organization and now his weekly WebTalkRadio.net show, OPERATION: NEVER FORGET! Dan, his wife Sandy, her mother and their two dogs live on an island in the Pacific Northwest, surrounded by his studio, art gallery and their gardens.
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- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "START THE CONVERSATION”
What if we, as Caregivers, started a conversation in our own homes about the work we do on a daily basis. What if we suggested that our kids take on a small role? What if families were more prepared to jointly take on the Caregiving Role?
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "MANAGING CAREGIVING”
Being the Primary Caregiver for a loved one is a “Sacred Trust” . . . it is also a unique job with broad responsibilities. If you approach the world of Caregiving as if you are a “General Manager”, the process can be far easier to achieve. Today’s show breaks it down for you.
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "WHAT’S YOUR CARING CAPACITY?”
There are many levels of caring. From the person who steps up to take on the huge role of Primary Caregiver to the brother who comes to town once a year and brings a fruit basket to the house . . . and many levels in between. All participation is good. We explore these levels in today’s show.
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "READY FOR ANYTHING”
The day to day issues of Caregiving change . . . often times, very fast . . . and the Caregiver must keep up. In fact, keeping balanced as things change make the changes easier for your loved one to make. So flexibility is a critical ability to master. Today’s show presents some of these shifting issues.
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "RHYTHM OF CAREGIVING”
There is a rhythm and a purpose to Caregiving. Each Caregiving circumstance has a different song. The Caregiver is like the orchestra conductor . . . and as such can greatly effect the entire daily performance. Today’s show focuses on how you can set the tone!
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "NOTHIN’ LIKE FAMILY”
When a real Caregiving Crisis arises, it’s good to have an able family member to call . . . Today’s show follows the unbelievable turn of events that can happen in any family. Stepping up to the challenge are those whose actions truly support the Caregivers choices and also in the best interests of the loved one who is ill.
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY” - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "NOT YOUR GRANDADDY’S HOSPICE”
Most people are unclear about what “Hospice” actually is. Some have a vision of a somewhat pleasant place that grandpa went to die. Others fear that “It’s far too early to call in the Hospice folks. Well nothing can be further from the truth. Today’s Hospice programs all across the country offer so many various good things to families caring for a loved one with chronic illness. Consult your doctor for information and, if appropriate, a prescription for hospice . . . don’t be afraid to learn more about what hospice may be able to provide to benefit your loved one and the entire family.
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "SORTING IT ALL OUT”
My wife has just gotten home after being in the hospital for over 3 weeks. Now we are finding our “new normal” as we evaluate our options moving forward. While we consider so many things, we are finding great enjoyment in the very simplest of things . . . holding hands, sharing a smile, enjoying a small meal . . . even just watching the birds at the feeder.
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "TORNADO TOUCHES DOWN”
My wife has just been stricken with a serious health issue and has been in the hospital for over 3 weeks. I have been broadcasting from inside the largest and most violent tornado I have ever seen.
My world and my wife’s world was been blown apart when this twister ripped off our roof and yanked us into it’s tumult.
But now the tornado has touched down and we have just begun to access the severe damage. Now we are left to deal with inoperable pancreatic cancer . . . a radically terrible diagnoses.
So while cancer may set the stage for our next phase of life . . . we will set the tone! We’ve got a lot of livin’ to do!
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY”
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "FROM INSIDE THE TORNADO”
My wife has just been stricken with a serious health issue and has been in the hospital for 2 weeks . . . We should have a diagnosis today. Today I am broadcasting from inside the largest and most violent tornado I have ever seen. My world and my wife’s world was been blown apart when this twister ripped off our roof and yanked us into it’s tumult. Hoping that this message gets to y’all down there on earth . . . I’m holding my dear wife close searching the horizon for a landing spot that might be soft.
It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in my personal story and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.Stay tuned!
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "WISH UPON A STAR”
Today’s focus will be on the wisdom that Caregivers have to impart to other Caregivers. It is my hope that listeners may hear themselves reflected in these personal stories and find comfort, good suggestions and solid tips that they may choose to apply to their own situation.
This is all in support of making your Caregiving a little bit easier! Cheers to Caregivers!!!And this is for you, my dearest Sandy . . . as we get you feeling better every day. I love you.
LINKS:
“Life in The US MILITARY” - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "TRANSITION”
Today’s focus will be the broadening of the focus of “OPERATION: NEVER FORGET!” to include all caregivers past and present and the idea that approaching your role as a caregiver with a light spirit and humor makes for a far easier circumstance. Introducing the “Caregivers Happy Hour” . . . a place to go to pick up inspiration and positive tips that you can put to work for you and your loved ones immediately. Cheers to Caregivers!!!
LINKS:
Ladies Auxiliary VFW
Link to: www.LadiesAuxVFW.org
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "DAY CARE”
Today’s focus will be the availability of a broad range of Adult Day Care Programs across the country. The options create an opportunity to find the perfect fit for your loved one that will also create a real respite for you, the caregiver. These programs have changed dramatically over the years and our guest, Nancy Gentry of Skagit Adult Day Care, is one of the great pioneers of these advances.
LINKS:
Adult Day Care Programs across the country
Link to: www.nadsa.org
Nancy Gentry of Skagit Adult Day Care
Link to: www.skagitadultdaycare.com
Ladies Auxiliary VFW
Link to: www.LadiesAuxVFW.org
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "HAPPY HOUR”
Today’s focus will be about how a light-hearted approach to caregiving can change everything. The daily use of humor makes the difficult task of Caregiving just a little easier.
Simple tips, some inspiration and a few laughs . . . are all yours today!Ladies Auxiliary VFW
Link to: www.LadiesAuxVFW.org“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "GOLDEN RULE OF CAREGIVING”
Today’s focus is on the importance of humor and actively employing the Golden Rule in your role as a Caregiver. The regular use of these powerful tools makes the difficult task of Caregiving just a little easier.
Ladies Auxiliary VFW
Link to: www.LadiesAuxVFW.org
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "VETERAN’S HOME CARE”
Today’s focus is on Veteran’s in home care benefits for those families that qualify. Whether or not you qualify, this is a perfect opportunity to assess where you stand as you look towards the future. Many Caregivers have been hard at work for many years . . . they are, in fact, Home Care Veterans. They too, deserve our respect and a snappy salute!
Veteran’s in home care
Link to: www.VeteransHomeCare.comLadies Auxiliary VFW
Link to: www.LadiesAuxVFW.org“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "CARE.COM”
Today’s focus will be on seriously considering in-home care assistance as back-up to the primary caregiver for a Veteran who has Memory Loss. The fact is, the primary caregiver needs to have a respite from time to time . . . maybe even enjoying a weekend out of town to recharge your batteries! Our guest is Jody Gastfriend, VP of Care Management for Care.com, a national affiliation of at home care professionals
in-home care assistance
Link to: www.Care.comLadies Auxiliary VFW
Link to: www.LadiesAuxVFW.org“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "CAREGIVING TIPS”
TIPS that may well save you and your loved one some aggravation, confusion and upset. I’d venture to say that using even one of these tips will make a huge difference.
Thanks to the Alzheimer’s Association for their years of tireless effort on behalf of the folks who have memory loss and their caregivers and families . . . most of the TIPS I will review today come from their suggestions.
Alzheimer’s Association
Link to: www.alz.org
Ladies Auxiliary VFW
Link to: www.LadiesAuxVFW.org
“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "MARS & VENUS . . . JOINING FORCES”
I call today’s show “Mars and Venus . . . Joining Forces for optimum caregiving”. Some time ago, author John Grey wrote “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus” . . . it became a best seller. Most of you have probably heard about this book . . . some have probably read it.
While I wasn’t crazy about the book, the title says it all. Men speak Martian . . . Women speak Venutian.Men and women look can at an issue for very different perspectives. This dual-perspective makes for excellent, full bodied, caregiving!
Ladies Auxiliary VFW - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "CAREGIVING BACK UP HELP”
Today’s focus will be on arranging for qualified in-home care assistance as back-up to the primary caregiver for a Veteran who has Memory Loss. The goal is to be ready to call for a professional in-home caregiver when the circumstances arise.
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "SHARE THE CARE”
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- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "HOME CARE ASSISTANCE”
The 24/7 important job of being the primary Caregiver of a Veteran with Memory Loss can be overwhelming. To many families, the prospect of moving their loved one to a residential care facility is totally out of the question . . . this show focuses on an available middle ground solution a solution which can serve the veteran with memory loss . . . and indeed the entire family in many ways . . . and that is having assistance, as needed, provided by an in-home care professional. Our guest is Lily Sarafan, President and CEO of Home Care Assistance, a national chain of service providers. Our short Veterans story today comes from writer, Riki Vogel, and is about her 92 year old father.
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "FAMILY FINANCIAL PLANNING”
At a certain point in time while caring for a Veteran who has memory loss the overseeing of the financial aspects of your household . . . the insurances, investments and banking responsibilities have likely passed to the primary caregiver or other family member along with the power of attorney to make current and future decisions and modifications in the families’ best interest. Our guest today is Joseph “JJ” Montanaro who is a certified financial planner and spokesperson for USAA . . . he will shed some light on these important issues
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "WE GET LETTERS”
Today’s show focuses on responses to letters and e-mails sent in by listeners. Many of the comments are about my book designed specifically for Veterans with Memory Loss. Our partners in our outreach with my book, “Life in The US MILITARY” is the Ladies Auxiliary VFW
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "INFO OVERLOAD
Today’s show is about how to weed through the huge mountain of available information to get to the specifics you require so that you can best move into right action on behalf of your cherished Veteran who has memory loss. Our Guest is Ron Kauffman (no relation) who is a Geriatric Care Manager, author, speaker and host of “Boomer Senior Lifestyles”. Our partners in our outreach with my book, “Life in The US MILITARY” is the Ladies Auxiliary VFW
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "SEE THE HUMOR"
Today’s focus is on finding the humor in your day as a primary caregiver and wellness advocate or helper to a caregiver of a Veteran suffering from memory loss. Our Guest today is Gary Barg . . . a true pioneer in the world of Caregiver Support. A noted speaker, writer and publisher on caregiving issues since 1995, Gary is founder and editor-in-chief of the first national magazine for caregivers, “Today’s Caregiver“, as well the fellow behind the original online caregiver community, caregiver.com and the author of “The Fearless Caregiver”. Today we will talk about how important humor is to the entire caregiving process and how very important it is for the caregiver to take proper care of themselves!
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "THE POWER OF BASEBALL”
Today’s show is about Baseball. More specifically, today’s show taps into the powerful memory connections that many veterans have with this great American Sport . . . and the Remarkable work of my guest, Nina Tumosa, and the Reminiscence Baseball Group she coordinates in St. Louis. This Group is comprised of Veterans with Memory Loss and focuses on the game of baseball and the profound effect it has on these Veterans.
LINKS:
Geriatric programs available thru the VA healthcare system
Link to: http://www.va.gov/greccLadies Auxiliary VFW
Link to: www.LadiesAuxVFW.org“Life in The US MILITARY”
Link to: www.LifeInTheUSMILITARY.com - OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "FEARLESS CAREGIVING"
What makes a “Fearless Caregiver”? A “Fearless Caregiver” will work hard to get a clear answer to a question . . . This is the caregiving advocate you want in your corner when you are unable to take that role yourself. Our Guest today is Gary Barg . . . a true pioneer in the world of Caregiver Support. A noted speaker, writer and publisher on caregiving issues since 1995, Gary is founder and editor-in-chief of the first national magazine for caregivers, “Today’s Caregiver“, as well the fellow behind the original online caregiver community, caregiver.com and the author of “The Fearless Caregiver”. Today we will talk about how you can be more fearless as a caregiver while making sure you take proper care of yourself!
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "ACCESSING VA PROGRAMS"
The Primary Caregiver for a Veteran who has Memory Loss needs help. Today’s show is about the various efforts and unique Geriatric programs available thru the VA healthcare system for veterans over 65 who suffer from chronic illnesses including memory loss. Our guest today is Nina Tumosa, the acting and associate director for education of the GRECC at the VA Health Care System located in St. Louis, Missouri. There are many programs available to senior Veterans with memory loss who qualify. Actively advocating on their behalf is critical to delivering these needed services. Today we will demystify this process.
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "IT TAKES A TEAM"
Caring for a Veteran who has Memory Loss is almost impossible without assistance. The Primary Caregiver needs help. Today’s show will focus on building a team of family and friends to advocate and care for your cherished Veteran and assist the Primary Caregiver. The VFW Ladies Auxiliary is in every community nationwide and can be of great help to your team. Our Guest, Deb Griffin, is the National Director of Veterans and Family Services of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and will talk about some of the different ways they can assist you and your Team. She will also talk about heir partnership with the host to spread the word about his book for Veterans with Memory Loss, “Life in The US MILITARY”. “Coming together as a Team is a beginning. Keeping together as a Team is progress. Working together as a Team is success.”
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET – "ICE CREAM & RESPECT"
From the frontlines of Alzheimer’s Education, today’s Guest is Roger Holbrook, LPN, Administrator of Josephine’s Suites in Stanwood, Washington, a 20 year Military Veteran and Alzheimer’s Educator. He will discuss how a Military Veteran with Memory Loss differs from a civilian with a similar condition. He will offer tips and suggestions to make life a little easier for families caring for a Military Veteran who has Memory Loss. Folks caring for a Veteran with Memory Loss are encouraged to visit Alzheimer’s Association for valuable information. The host will also briefly discuss his book, “Life in The US MILITARY” which is designed specifically for Veterans with Memory Loss. “There will also be several delicious references to ice cream!”
- OPERATION: NEVER FORGET - "Thanks for the Memory"
Today’s show will focus on the Issues facing Veterans with Memory Loss, featuring real-life stories about caregivers and families. Guest Steve Austin is a County Veteran Service Officer. He will offer tips and suggestions to make life a little easier for families caring for a Military Veteran who has Memory Loss. Folks caring for a Veteran with Memory Loss will be encouraged to visit VA.GOV for a list of Veterans Services that apply. The host will also introduce his book, “Life in The US MILITARY” which is designed specifically for Veterans with Memory Loss and his new partnership with the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Organization.
