The Arkansas Broadcasters Association has announced that Betsy Broyles Arnold will receive the Arkansan of the Year Award at its annual convention this September.
When her mother, Barbara, wife of then UA Athletic Director Frank Broyles, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, Broyles Arnold moved her family back from Texas to become a caregiver for her mother along with her twin sister, Linda.
Following her mother’s passing, she joined with her father, Frank, to help other families navigate the challenges of the ravaging disease on loved ones. That led to the founding of the Frank and Barbara Broyles Legacy Foundation and the creation of the Coach Broyles’ Playbook for Alzheimer’s Caregivers.
ABA President Kristen Speer said, ” The work of the Broyles Foundation has had a meaningful impact on so many Arkansans who have had a family member suffering from the disease. The Broyles family’s courage in sharing their journey with the public has been both helpful and inspiring to so many caregivers.”
Over a million copies of the book have been distributed in 11 languages. Since that time, Broyles Arnold has devoted countless hours to supporting caregivers, along with spending time training and educating healthcare facilities. She and her daughter Molly have delivered over 250 presentations, made over 400 radio and television appearances, and are nationally recognized for their efforts to improve the lives of caregivers.
Current data from the Alzheimer’s Association says over 60,000 people in Arkansas are suffering from the disease this year alone. The report also estimates that nearly 175,000 family members are involved in providing care and support for Alzheimer’s sufferers in Arkansas alone this year.
The award presentation will be made at the ABA Arkansan of the Year Luncheon on Monday, September 14 at its annual convention.
The ABA has been presenting this award since 1977. Past recipients have included J. Will Fullbright, Johnny Cash, Bill Clinton, Don Tyson, and other entertainment, political, sports, and business leaders in Arkansas.
