Volunteers help Alzheimer's patients

TULSA - Today, it's a walk in the park, and watching dogs run and play.

It's the kind of outing Ed looks forward to every week.

He suffers from Alzheimer's, and doesn't get out much.

Jim Brosseau changes that with his volunteer work with the Alzheimer's Association.  

"It gives me an opportunity to spend time with Ed, get him out of the house, he can't drive, so we do as many fun things as we can," Jim says.

Jim spends several hours a week with Ed, part of a program called the "Buddy System."

 Ed tells us, "He's become a friend, he's just a wonderful man, to have somebody, to have a friend when you don't have any others, things like that."

Ed's wife knows just how important that relationship is.

Cathy says caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's is a 24/7 responsibility.

 "It gives me a chance to get out a little but, and get out on my own and have a little free time."
Ed and Jim found each other, through the tireless efforts of Georgeana and Bobby Rainwater.

For 15 years, they've volunteered with the Alzheimer's Association, recruiting other volunteers to be part of the Buddy System.

"To me this is the most important thing we do, is people helping people."

And for the Rainwaters, it's painfully personal.

Both their parents suffered from advanced Alzheimer's.

Caring for them was physically draining, emotionally heart breaking.

 "I don't think you really realize what is involved until you get involved in it."

And many more volunteers are needed.

One caregiver's been waiting for six years for her loved one to be matched with a buddy.

 "I've never, never had a friend like that," Ed says.

 And Cathy wants everyone to know "It's wonderful, it's such a blessing, and I'm so thankful they've able to do this. It's an awesome program."

All volunteers go through a background check and get training.

If you'd like to donate or volunteer, call the Alzheimer's Association 1-800-272-3900 or  www.alz.org/alzokar.