The Making of A Winged Hero and the Grandmother That Raised Him

Are you a grandparent navigating the unexpected challenges of raising your grandchildren, seeking comfort and understanding in the face of loss or family upheaval? Do you wonder how to nurture resilience and hope in your grandkids while struggling with your own emotional, financial, and physical limits? Are you searching for meaning in the everyday moments of caregiving and longing to connect with others who truly understand how isolating—and transformative—kinship caregiving can be?I’m Laura Brazan, host of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' In this podcast, we showcase real-life stories and expert advice for grandparents and kinship caregivers. In Episode 91, “The Making of a Winged Hero and the Grandmother That Raised Him,” we sit down with Lyubim Kogan, a five-time first-generation immigrant, 9/11 survivor, and founder of wingsforheroes.org. Lyubim shares the profound impact of his grandmother’s unwavering love and resourcefulness, revealing how the ‘grandma system’ of kindness and silent presence turned trauma into a world-changing mission to help amputee veterans rebuild their lives.For more information about Lyubim Kogan or to donate to "Winged Hero's" please visit his website.Discover strategies for overcoming adversity, building relational legacy, and offering unconditional love—even in the face of overwhelming odds. Learn how kinship caregivers can lead by example, teach core values, and create enduring hope for generations to come. Join our supportive online community and connect with others who understand the unique joys and hardships of raising grandchildren.Subscribe to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren' and find the strength, wisdom, and resources you need to transform challenges into meaningful growth—for your family and yourself.Send us Fan MailRethink the child welfare system—what if the real issue isn’t funding, but the questions we ask? If you’re passionate about social justice, child welfare, or systemic reform—this episode will challenge your perspective and inspire new ways to advocate for change. Join us in shifting the focus from crisis management to family-centered solutions. Reshape the future of child welfare—listen now.  In this special pre-roll segment, I’m sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel’s story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook