Thank you for reading! I’ll be as brief as I can.

My name is Donny Rood. I’m a Wyoming native and have been a Wyoming broadcaster since 1988. I’ve developed and programmed many successful radio stations throughout my career, but none more personal than or as important as this one: the Wyoming Senior Network. Developing this format has been one of my greatest joys. My mother made me a passionate music fan by listening to all types of music constantly during her lifetime. This internet station sounds like the home in which my sisters and I grew up. But it’s more than just that: it’s a companion and a comfort for Wyoming senior citizens in an effort to help combat the loneliness epidemic in that population, as well as a nudge to their memories.

Meet my sweet mom, JoAnn, and I’ll explain.

My mother developed dementia. Sadly, she is one of a growing number who will. When her memory and vocabulary began to vanish, she would still get joy from her favorite music. It would stir her soul and lift her spirit because it was something still familiar in the recesses of her mind.

For her family, learning her changing needs and trying to find the right people and organizations to talk to in this confusing new reality (while our own minds were consumed with grief, worry, and fear) was terrible. The practical half of the Wyoming Senior Network is this very website, helping connect you to resources. Our own podcast, and others included, are conversations with Wyoming providers, for deeper understanding and help with what you’re going through.

For families and caregivers: the resources you need. For seniors: familiarity, connection and companionship. Please let this station play for them: it’s a gift from my mom.