The Arizona Republic
April 7, 2026
by Lin Sue Flood
When ASU junior Emily-Jane Crawford finishes her classes and homework, she travels to Glendale to visit a very special friend. Bud Addison is 81 years old, and despite his dementia, Emily-Jane’s visits are the highlight of his week.
“When the doorbell rings, he jumps to greet her,” laughs his wife, Mary.
Their time together is filled with painting, word searches and puzzles. For Bud, it’s about more than just staying busy. “Bud loves the socialization,” Emily-Jane explains. “People with dementia often only see family members, so this gives him a chance to connect with someone new.”
This connection is the heart of RISE (Respite in Student Engagement), a unique partnership between Arizona State University and Hospice of the Valley. The program matches students interested in healthcare careers with families caring for loved ones with dementia. Hospice of the Valley’s dementia team provides specialized training that focuses on creating meaningful interactions. Families pay the students $20 per hour to offer this companionship and emotional support.
For Mary, the new program is a lifeline. “I was his only caregiver and found myself in complete burnout,” she shares. “RISE has been a blessing. I finally have someone I can trust with my husband and seeing him so engaged has lifted my spirits.”
The benefits go both ways. Emily-Jane says the experience has given her a deeper understanding of dementia. “I’ve learned that it truly is the long goodbye. Day by day, the individual will forget — whether it’s a name or who you are to them. But even if the faces fade, the feelings and emotions for loved ones never do.”
Visit riserespite.org to learn more or to apply for the RISE program.
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