Life Happens

Kim Hegwood
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  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Kim Hegwood has met and worked with people from all walks of life. As an Elder Law Attorney, she knows all too well that many families are not prepared when "life happens." This podcast will offer you insights into different subjects you may not have considered. With knowledge comes power. Tune in every Thursday as we discuss the information you will need when "Life Happens!"

  1. Sep 3

    From Confusion to Clarity: Understanding Medicaid Waivers in Texas

    Disability Inclusion in the Workplace: "I refuse to allow this segment to sit at home for the rest of their lives watching TV or on their iPad. There is absolutely something they can do." ~ Ingrid MonroyWelcome to another enlightening episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood. Today, Kim Hegwood is joined by returning guest Ingrid Monroy to guide listeners from confusion to clarity as they unravel the often overwhelming world of Medicaid waivers in Texas. Whether you're a parent just starting your journey or someone facing endless waitlists and acronyms like CLASS, HCS, or MDCP, this episode addresses the most common questions and empowers families to access the support and resources their loved ones deserve. Plus, discover practical advice, insight into essential programs like Mikey's Guide and Together MP, and stories of hope and advocacy for those navigating the challenges of disability and Medicaid in Texas.How to Contact IngridMikey’s Place 501c3713-591-1965www.mikeysplace.netwww.together-mp.netBio:For sixteen years, Ingrid Monroy has been an experienced non-profit organization manager. In 2006, she created Mikey’s Place, a federally recognized 501(c)(3) charity named for her son, which offers support and services to families raising children with disabilities. As the mother of a child with a rare genetic condition and intractable epilepsy, Ingrid understands first-hand the challenges that families experience and the need for helpful resources. Driven by her desire to help these families, she takes pride in offering programs as well as providing them with accurate and valuable information. Her publication, Mikey’s Guide, has been used by thousands of Houstonians who are searching for services for their children. As Executive Director of Mikey’s Place, Ingrid successfully identifies community needs and creates programs to fill those needs; organizes events; recruits and coordinates volunteers; promotes Mikey’s Place programs; fundraises and applies for grants; engages in board development activities and strategic planning. In an effort to expand Mikey’s Place’s collection of programsIngrid most recently developed a unique vocational and work program, Together, to meet the needs of chronically underserved and unemployed adults with disabilities. Her many volunteer activities have included working in the food pantries at West Houston Assistance Ministries (WHAM) and Fairhaven (Chapelwood) Methodist Church, and assisting with bible stories for the Joy Group Special Needs Ministry and Adult Super Place special needs camp at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church. Ingrid was honored with a Lifetime PTA membership for her volunteer work and contributions to schools in Spring Branch ISD, and previously served on the board of Family to Family Network. Ingrid is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where she earned both a B.A. in Modern Languages and an M.S. in Marketing. Mikey’s Place and Ingrid’s work have been recognized by the Houston Chronicle’s “Houston Gives” annual charity publication. She has also appeared as an invited panelist on KSEV and KSBJ radio programs and received a “Community Icon " award_______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

  2. Aug 27

    Five Reasons Home Care Helps Seniors Live Independently

    For some people, the thought of someone coming into their home and helping them can feel like the loss of that independence. When really it's kind of the opposite." ~ Leo WalkerWelcome to Life Happens with Kim Hegwood. In today’s episode, Kim sits down with Leo Walker of Home Helpers to discuss the five key reasons why home care can empower seniors to live independently for longer. From maintaining dignity and safety to providing companionship and peace of mind, Leo sheds light on the practical benefits that professional home care brings to families navigating aging at home. Whether you’re considering support options for a loved one or want to plan ahead, this episode offers expert insights and actionable tips to help you make informed decisions about aging in place.How to Contact Leo Walkeremail: lwalker@homehelpershomecare.comwebsite: homeHelpersTX.com facebook.com/homehelpersSEHoustonBio:Leo Walker is the owner of Home Helpers Home Care in Pearland, serving seniors, veterans, and others in the greater Pearland and Clear Lake areas. He is also the founder and president of HIKE for Mental Health, an all-volunteer nonprofit group that organizes hikes and walks around the country to combat the stigma of mental illness and raises funds for mental health research and trail conservancy. He chairs the planning team that organizes the City of Pearland’s Veterans Day Walk to honor veterans and to raise funds for local nonprofits that aid Vets battling PTSD. His career spans more than 30 years of leadership in public, private, and nonprofit sectors. He resides in Friendswood. _______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

  3. Aug 20

    Guiding Seniors Home: Inside the Work of an Assisted Living Locator

    Spotting Red and Green Flags When Touring Facilities: "A high turnover rate would be kind of a red flag to me. Does the staff seem happy, you know, with where they're at? It would be another kind of green or red flag depending on, you know, if they're happy or unhappy." ~Jeremy MooreWelcome to Life Happens with Kim Hegwood. In today’s episode, Kim sits down with Jeremy Moore of Assisted Living Locators to demystify the process of finding the right assisted living community for seniors. As families face the overwhelming challenge of transitioning loved ones from home care to assisted living, Jeremy sheds light on what truly matters—balancing levels of care, budget, and amenities with the unique personalities and evolving needs of each individual. Together, they explore the often-misunderstood differences between what families think they need versus what seniors actually require, discuss critical red and green flags to watch for on community tours, and offer practical advice for starting the search proactively. Whether you’re seeking guidance for yourself or a loved one, this episode delivers essential insights for making informed and compassionate decisions about the next stage of life.How to Contact Jeremy MoorePhone - (832)317-9222Email - jmoore@assistedlivinglocators.comWebsite - https://sehouston.assistedlivinglocators.comBio:Jeremy Moore is a Senior Care Advisor, military veteran, and small-business entrepreneur. He helps older adults, their families, and healthcare professionals to find safe, personalized, and compassionate care solutions, removing the stress and uncertainty that often accompany the placement process.Jeremy Moore has always enjoyed serving others and building innovative solution systems. In his early 20s, after completing a deployment to Afghanistan, he began a career as a Field Service Engineer in the medical device arena. Soon afterwards, Jeremy moved into a Program Development role for a medical robotics company, where he consulted with surgeons to expand their practice through unique market development strategies. He is now the Senior Care Advisor and owner of Assisted Living Locators of Southeast Houston, which guides seniors and their care teams toward the right assisted living, memory care, and long-term care options without stress or uncertainty.______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

  4. Aug 13

    Occupational Therapy in Real Life: How TOTA Helps Texans Thrive at Every Age

    The Overlooked Needs of Aging Couples "But what no one thought about was his wife, his caregiver, who was also 76 or so with rheumatoid arthritis." ~ Judith JosephWelcome to this episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood. The conversation focused on the role of occupational therapy in helping Texans thrive at every age. Special attention was given to supporting both older adults navigating cognitive and physical challenges and children with disabilities striving to participate fully in school and social activities. The discussion explored how occupational therapists assist with activities of daily living, promote independence, address workplace injuries, and collaborate with families and caregivers. A key theme that emerged was the importance of ongoing training and advocacy, especially in the face of legislative changes that impact access to care and reimbursement for essential therapy services. Listeners will gain insight into how the Texas Occupational Therapy Association supports practitioners, clients, and the broader community in overcoming life’s daily hurdles.How to Contact Judithhttps://www.tota.org/ https://www.instagram.com/tx.otassociation/ Bio:Judith Joseph has been the Executive Director of the Texas Occupational Therapy Association since 2017. She worked in outpatient neuro-rehab for ten years until June 2020. She was a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist from 2013 to 2025 and developed the clinical driving evaluation program at Houston Methodist.Judi obtained a BS in OT from Western Michigan University and a Post Professional MA from Texas Woman’s University. She has been an OT for more years than she cares to admit, but if you need to count, more than 40 years have passed. Judi is currently an adjunct faculty member at San Jacinto College, the OTA program in Houston, TX.My personal philosophy is “you should have at least one good laugh a day, even if it’s at yourself.”_______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

  5. Aug 6

    Safe at Home: How to Age in Place with Confidence

    "Fixing it the right way, the first way, can eliminate so many problems and really have people in the best place possible for aging in place, maintaining their safety, their functionality, and their independence for their complete future” ~ Dr. Paige DennyTitle: Safe at Home: How to Age in Place with ConfidenceIn this episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, the conversation focused on how to age in place with confidence, offering insights and practical advice for older adults and their families who wish to remain safely and independently in their own homes. The discussion explored common safety concerns, the importance of proactive home modifications, and the role of clinical expertise in identifying risks that often go unnoticed. A key theme that emerged was the value of preparing the home environment before mobility challenges arise, ensuring not only physical safety but also emotional well-being for both seniors and their caregivers. Listeners will discover actionable tips, from eliminating fall hazards to customizing living spaces, and learn why working with professionals makes all the difference in maintaining a high quality of life at home.How to Contact Dr. Paige and Ryan Denny281-202-2995 www.stayathometexas.com Bio:Dr. Paige Denny is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist, and Certified Geriatric Care Professional with 15 years of experience working with people in real homes, rehabilitation settings, assisted living communities, and senior care environments. She continues to work in home health, giving her ongoing, real-world experience with how mobility changes affect safety, accessibility, caregiving, and independence at home.Ryan Denny is the co-founder of Stay At Home Texas and helps lead the company’s education, outreach, and community partnerships. Ryan works with families, healthcare professionals, and local organizations to explain Home Mobility Planning™ and connect people with practical resources for making the home work better as mobility needs change._______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

  6. Jul 30

    Finding Steady Ground: Dr. Jeannine Forrest on Calming the Chaos of Dementia Care”

    The Superpower of People with Dementia: "I think it's a superpower of people who live with dementia is that they're really good at reading your body language and letting us know if we come across as frustrated or angry."Title: Finding Steady Ground: Dr. Jeannine Forrest on Calming the Chaos of Dementia Care”Welcome back to *Life Happens with Kim Hegwood*! In today’s episode, Kim Hegwood sits down with Dr. Jeannine Forrest, founder of "Through the Forest" and a dedicated dementia coach, to discuss one of the most challenging journeys families face: dementia care. Dr. Jeannine Forrest shares her insights on calming the chaos that often surrounds dementia, offering compassionate and practical advice for caregivers overwhelmed by sudden changes in their loved ones’ behavior. From communication strategies to self-care tips, this conversation is packed with encouragement and real-world solutions for anyone caring for someone living with dementia. Whether you’re a family member or part of a care community, tune in for guidance, hope, and a supportive path forward.How to Contact https://www.dementiacoachoncall.com Jeannine@dementiacoachoncall.com773-704-1834DementiaSociety.orgBio:Jeannine Forrest, Ph. D, R.N., founder of Through the Forrest, provides guidance and education to family caregivers, companions, and friends impacted by dementia through her innovative service, Dementia Coach On-Call® (dementiacoachoncall.com). She also serves as Director of the Dementia Horizons Academy at the Dementia Society of America. With more than 35 years of expertise in dementia care, geriatrics, and end-of-life support, Dr. Forrest is recognized nationally as a thought leader and educator. She has held faculty appointments at universities, served in leadership roles on state hospice and dementia advisory boards, and trained healthcare professionals across the United States as well as internationally in China.Her work emphasizes coaching and support to help navigate everyday challenges in caring for someone living with dementia._______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

  7. Jul 23

    Why Ingrid Built Mikey’s Guide: A Lifeline for Disability Resources in Texas

    "Because as your child with a disability, ages, your needs are changing and you need to learn about different types of services." ~ Ingrid MonroyTitle: Why Ingrid Built Mikey’s Guide: A Lifeline for Disability Resources in TexasWelcome to another episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, where we help Texans protect their legacy and navigate life’s complex transitions. Today, Kim Hegwood sits down with Ingrid Munroy, the founder behind Mikey’s Guide—a vital lifeline for disability resources in Texas. Hear how Ingrid Munroy's personal journey as a parent searching for summer camps and support for her son evolved into an ever-expanding, indispensable guide for families with loved ones of all ages and disabilities. We’ll explore how Mikey’s Guide demystifies everything from specialized summer camps and educational acronyms to Medicaid waivers and long-term planning, and get an inside look at Together at Mikey’s Place, a new vocational initiative for young adults with disabilities. Whether you’re just starting on this path or looking ahead, this episode is packed with hope, practical advice, and crucial resources you won’t want to miss.How to Contact Ingrid (713) 591-1965 and email is ingrid@mikeysplace.netBio:For sixteen years, Ingrid Monroy has been an experienced non-profit organization manager. In 2006, she created Mikey’s Place, a federally recognized 501(c)(3) charity named for her son, which offers support and services to families raising children with disabilities. As the mother of a child with a rare genetic condition and intractable epilepsy, Ingridunderstands first-hand the challenges that families experience and the need for helpful resources. Driven by her desire to help these families, she takes pride in offering programs as well as providing them with accurateand valuable information. Her publication, Mikey’s Guide, has been used by thousands of Houstonians who are searching for services for their children.As Executive Director of Mikey’s Place, Ingrid successfully identifies community needs and creates programs to fill those needs; organizes events; recruits and coordinates volunteers; promotes Mikey’s Place programs; fundraises and applies for grants; engages in board development activities and strategic planning. In an effort to expand Mikey’s Place’s collection of programs, Ingrid most recently developed a unique vocational and work program, Together, to meet the needs ofchronically underserved and unemployed adults with disabilities.Her many volunteer activities have included working in the food pantries at West Houston Assistance Ministries (WHAM) and Fairhaven (Chapelwood) Methodist Church, and assisting with bible stories for the Joy Group Special Needs Ministry and Adult Super Place special needs camp at MemorialDrive United Methodist Church. Ingrid was honored with a Lifetime PTA membership for her volunteer work and contributions to schools in Spring Branch ISD, and previously served on the board of Family to Family Network.Ingrid is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where she earned both a B.A. in Modern Languages and an M.S. in Marketing. Mikey’s Place and Ingrid’s work have been recognized by the Houston Chronicle’s “Houston Gives” annual charity publication. She has also appeared as an invited panelist onKSEV and KSBJ radio programs, and received a “Community Icon_______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

  8. Jul 16

    Project REACH: What Real-Time Caregiver Data Is Teaching Us About Dementia Support

    "What we've been trying to do more and more is say, okay, what is it that makes some caregivers thrive quite well and others have a harder time? ~ Dr. Christopher FagundesWelcome to another episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, the show where Texans learn how to protect their legacy and navigate the unique challenges of the second half of life. In this week’s episode, Kim is joined by Dr. Christopher Fagundes, who leads Project Reach—one of the first U.S. studies to track caregiver stress in real time using cutting-edge wearable devices and smartphone surveys.Together, they explore what this groundbreaking real-time data is revealing about the daily struggles and health impacts faced by caregivers of individuals with dementia, and how technology is shaping more personalized support and interventions. From discovering the true burden of loneliness to understanding the powerful effects of individualized in-the-moment insights, this conversation provides hope, practical advice, and a glimpse into the future of caregiver support. Whether you’re a caregiver, a family member, or just interested in the intersection of health and technology, you won’t want to miss these timely insights.How to Contact Dr. Christopher Fagundes: https://bmed.rice.edu/https://profiles.rice.edu/faculty/christopher-p-fagundes Email: cf20@rice.edu Phone #: 713-348-2468713-348-8126Bio:Dr. Christopher Fagundes has dedicated his research to understanding the impact of chronic stress on caregivers, particularly those caring for spouses with dementia. Early on, he and his team explored how the ongoing burden of caregiving could affect the body’s major systems, including cardiovascular and immune function. Through regular assessments, they asked caregivers to reflect on recent stress levels, but soon realized the ever-changing nature of caregiving. Conversations revealed that the experience is defined by rapid, in-the-moment emotional shifts—one moment feeling in control, and the next overwhelmed. This insight has shaped Dr. Fagundes’ commitment to capturing the dynamic, moment-to-moment realities caregivers face, emphasizing the complex interplay between psychological stress and physical health.Project REACHOur National Institutes of Health- funded study, Project Reach, is dedicated to understanding and improving the quality of life for individuals caring for a spouse with dementia. The insights we gain will directly inform the development of treatments designed to enhance caregiver health and well-being.The study is conducted through Rice university with the option of home visits to ensure participation is as convenient as possible for caregivers. We are proud to collaborate with Amazing Place, CarePartners, and Balyor College of Medicine, uniting our efforts to generate evidence- based data on the experiences and health of caregivers.Together, our goal is to develop meaningful, research-driven solutions that enhance support for the caregiving community._______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

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About

Kim Hegwood has met and worked with people from all walks of life. As an Elder Law Attorney, she knows all too well that many families are not prepared when "life happens." This podcast will offer you insights into different subjects you may not have considered. With knowledge comes power. Tune in every Thursday as we discuss the information you will need when "Life Happens!"

Information

  • Creator
    Kim Hegwood
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    298
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Kim Hegwood
  • Show Website
    Life Happens

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