A Special Panel Discussion on PBS’s Caregiving Documentary
On June 24, PBS premiered its powerful new documentary Caregiving, from Executive Producer Bradley Cooper and Well Beings, which highlights the often-overlooked experiences of family caregivers. To dive deeper into the themes explored in the film, the Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network hosted a hybrid panel discussion on June 26, 2025.
This thought-provoking event featured experts and caregivers sharing insights and personal stories, with a focus on the critical support systems needed for those who care for loved ones. Our panelists - who will include members of the caregiver community - offered their unique perspectives on navigating the challenges of caregiving. Whether you're a caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply interested in learning more about this important issue, this discussion is an invaluable experience.
Watch the Recorded Event
Get to Know Our Panelists
Michael James
Michael James’s late wife Judith was diagnosed with younger onset Alzheimer’s in 2009, when both of them were serving on the faculty at UNL. In 2023 he published a memoir, Dear Judy–A Love Story Rewritten by Alzheimer’s, that documents their six-year journey with her disease, and the commitment and creativity he had to bring to his role as Judith’s primary caregiver.
Kelly Nielsen
An Autism Action Partnership team member, Kelly is a 'sandwich generation' caregiver, juggling caring for a child with Autism and an aging mother that now lives with her in the same home.
Dr. Carole Patrick
Dr. Carole Patrick is CEO of Visiting Nurse Association and Easterseals Nebraska and a psychologist by education. Five years ago she moved her now 88-year-old mother into her home as she was struggling to care for herself. Their journey together has been a balance of laughter and tears, independence and dependence, servanthood and humility.
Duece Phaly
Duece cared for his teenage brother, Dhon, who was struck by a car in March 2024 resulting in a Traumatic Brain Injury. After uprooting his life to care for Dhon, the brotherly relationship and rehab journey would begin to sink deeper roots into a new life and passion for them both.
Sarah Rasby
PhD student and caregiver researcher that cared for her twin sister after a traumatic cardiac event left her with a severe brain injury, Sarah became her full-time caregiver overnight—without training, resources, or preparation—while also raising two young children and working full time. What began as an act of love evolved into a profound and life-altering journey that reshaped Sarah's identity, exposed systemic gaps, and deepened her commitment to advocating for family caregivers.
Linda Ryba
A long-time caregiver for her mother who lived to be 102 years old, Linda understands the complicated journey - both emotionally and financially - of the transition from aging at home to an assisted living facility.
Graciela Sharif
As a Peruvian immigrant, introduced to Middle Eastern culture through marriage, and mother of a child with Down Syndrome, Sharif knows about the obstacles that individuals with disabilities and their families face in many aspects of their lives.
Heidi Sommer
Without a lot of options and places for her son to thrive, Heidi provides over 80 percent of her son’s 24-hour care needed each day and also works part-time. Her son, coupled with providing bits of support to a dad and father-in-law fighting cancer, she has found joy and “magic” in caregiving, but has also faced sadness and isolation. The “magic” is seeing the joy in the hard and the difference one can make.
Event Partners
This important event is made possible through the generous collaboration of our partners. We are grateful for their support in helping to bring this conversation to life and amplify the voices of caregivers. Thank you to our partners for their commitment to this cause and for helping us create a meaningful and impactful experience!
