“Love and duty guided me to be his caregiver”

Ron Anderson’s journey as primary family caregiver for his father Lee Anderson is one of love and respect.

Ron said nothing could have prepared him for the challenging yet rewarding experience he had embarked on. “My mom and dad were married for 65 years. After she died, dad remained pretty independent for about two years, until he broke his hip.”

Following that incident, Ron moved in with his father to provide him with care and support. “He didn’t want to be in a nursing home. He wanted to age at home. I was going to make that happen. Love and duty guided me to be his caregiver,” he said. 

Lee Anderson’s life of service

Speaking of his father, Lee, Ron said that “His parents wouldn’t let him join early. So, he contributed to the war by moving to Los Angeles, where he worked at Lockheed building planes for the English before the U.S. got involved.”

Lee continued his work until 1942, when he was drafted into the Army Air Corps. He had earned a commission as a flight officer by 1945. Despite his desire to be more directly involved in combat, Lee spent most of his time stateside where he played a crucial role ferrying planes across the eastern seaboard.

But as Lee aged, his needs grew. Ron sacrificed his job to take on a caregiver role full-time. “He relied on me every hour of every day. When he was up, I was up too,” Ron said.

Ron emphasized the emotional aspects of caregiving, explaining there were strenuous days and moments filled with laughter and love. “It’s hard seeing a parent age and become more dependent and vulnerable. There were moments of pure frustration and sadness, but also deep connection and happiness.”

Support from VA Salt Lake City

Ron found help at Salt Lake VA’s Caregiver Support program, which was crucial to his journey. “They gave me resources and guidance that helped me to care for dad at home. It was a turning point for me. I had no prior experience being a caregiver.”

One key figure in this journey was nurse Lori Davis, who “changed what I thought about VA. She helped me navigate the health care system and provided care that went beyond dad’s medical needs.”

Davis’s aid included arranging for a new wheelchair when Lee needed it and coordinating respite care. “VA helped me care for him at home where he was happiest and it made all the difference,” Ron added.

Journey’s end

Ron’s caregiver journey ended in 2024 with Lee’s passing at 102. “Caring for dad was my way of honoring his life and service. VA helping me do it is their way of honoring his life and service.”