My name is Barbara Bouchey, and I am honored to once again serve as an Honorary Chairperson and premier sponsor for Living Resources’ annual “Tribute to Transforming Lives” event.
Last year, I shared the story of my family, the challenges we faced, and the journey that shaped us in so many wonderful ways. This year, I find myself thinking about what it means to continue that journey, how the need for care, compassion, and community doesn’t end, but evolves over time.
My brothers, Danny and Brian, have always been at the heart of that story.
Danny, who we lost, was a gentle and loving soul with a beautiful sense of wonder. He found joy in the simplest things like baseball, bowling, the New York Giants, and savoring one M&M at a time. He taught us so much about patience, kindness, and what it means to truly appreciate life’s small moments.
Brian, too, has always brought light into every room he enters. His warmth, engaging smile, eyes that twinkle, and his love for music, people, and movies (especially the Titanic), have always made him incredibly special to everyone who knows him.
Today, Brian is facing a new challenge. He has developed Alzheimer’s disease, something that is all too common among individuals with Down syndrome as they age. Watching this progression is difficult. There are moments of loss, but also moments of connection that feel even more meaningful. I am cherishing every moment that we can share together.
Through every stage of both of my brothers’ lives, organizations like Living Resources have been there.
They were there for Danny, providing support, stability, and a sense of belonging that lasted a lifetime. And they are here for Brian now, meeting him with patience, dignity, and compassion as his needs change.
That consistency of care is something our family has never taken for granted.
When I reflect on how far we’ve come, I’m reminded that the work of organizations like Living Resources is not just about helping people once, it’s about walking alongside them for a lifetime.
That is what makes their impact so profound.
I am deeply grateful for the role Living Resources has played in my brothers’ lives and in mine. And I am proud to support their mission as we gather once again for this special event to give tribute to these special individuals
I hope you will join us for the 5th Annual “Tribute to Transforming Lives” as we continue to ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities receive the care, can live a life of dignity, and support they deserve at every stage of life.