Dayton resident selected for military caregiver advocate program

Ida Carson CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Ida Carson CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

A Dayton resident who is a caregiver for her son who served multiple tours in combat was one of 28 chosen around the nation as a Dole Caregiver Fellow.

Ida Carson, 56, was appointed an Elizabeth Dole Foundation fellowship, acting as an advocate on issues facing military and veteran caregivers.

Carson’s son, a former Army soldier, served in Iraq, and has dealt with post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury, she said.

MILITARY NEWS: Work to start on $10.5 million Wright-Patt gateway

“My role is to primarily be an advocate to bring an awareness to what caregivers do across the county,” she said.

The Foundation estimates there are 5.5 million caregivers who offer $14 billion in unpaid care to support wounded or ill military members and veterans.

MILITARY NEWS: Air Force Marathon tops list as ‘best’ fall marathon

Carson has worked with the Dayton VA Medical Center to get the care her son needs, she said.

“So many times our veterans fall through the cracks,” she said. “My son’s journey transitioning into civilian life has not been easy. However, that’s where I come in to ask for additional resources, programs and training to be able to support what he requires.”

She will serve a two-year term as a Dole fellow.

About the Author