Bobbie Dyer
Bobbie Dyer is a professional whose expertise in mortgages and finance has given her a new perspective on the importance of having an estate plan. This knowledge and her personal experiences with aging loved ones inspired her to make her own plan that includes a transformational gift to Health First Aging Services through her estate.
"The greatest gift I can give my family upon my passing is the knowledge of who I want to support and why, so they don't have to guess," Bobbie said.
Bobbie's mother, lovingly known in her family as "VaVao" (Portuguese for grandmother) is struggling with signs of early memory loss. This firsthand experience, along with seeing so many other loved ones and friends in this community suffer with memory disorders, is her motivation to give back. From language struggles, declining problem-solving and other skills that affect a person's ability to perform everyday activities, to the emotional and financial strain of caring for aging loved ones, Bobbie recognizes the critical need for specialized care and support for caregivers.
"Bobbie's commitment to Health First Aging Services will help ensure that these vital resources continue to be available for our aging population and provide reassuring support for their caregivers," said Jeanene Donilon, Foundation Director.
Currently, more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's, and a new patient develops the disease every 66 seconds. According to the Alzheimer's Association, by 2050, the number of Americans living with Alzheimer's is expected to more than triple to 16 million.
As Bobbie learned more about this growing trend and the need for resources, she decided to invest her time and resources with Health First Aging Services. "Health First is very diverse in the levels and type of care they provide, and it's important to me to be involved and support our local healthcare system," said Bobbie. As a Foundation Trustee since 2013, Bobbie has seen the impact of community support for our local healthcare system. Bobbie also has advice for others regarding estate planning. "It's easier than you think. Find a reliable attorney, and just start the conversation. Your plans may change over time, but taking that first step is key. Don't leave it for others to guess," she shared. "Estate planning is about taking control of what is most important to you, including healthcare and medical decisions, providing for your family and remembering charitable causes most meaningful to you. Proactive planning will relieve potential burdens and stress on surviving family members."
"A good plan provides you and your family peace of mind. You never know what will happen in your future. Make your plans now and make your commitments known," Bobbie advises.
Health First is grateful for Bobbie's thoughtful support of Aging Services, and we are proud to recognize her in the Legacy Society. "Bobbie's generosity is a result of her diligent work ethic, being a lifelong learner, and having a passion for the overall health and well-being of seniors in the community," adds Jeanene. Through six- and seven-figure planned gifts, like Bobbie's, Health First will be well-positioned to meet the growing need for care and treatment of our aging population and their caregivers.
For more information on making a gift through your will or estate plan, contact Chris Kern at 321.434.1807 or chris.kern@hf.org.