In her role as chair of the APA Alliance’s Elsa Barton Scholarship Fund, Cathy Tasman has been impressed over and over by the courage of families who have not only survived but overcame overwhelming obstacles despite the debilitating illness of a physician spouse or parent.

" The Elsa Barton Scholarship has made a difference in these families’ lives," she said, " and I hope people will be moved to make a donation as well as let others know the scholarship exists."

The fund awards educational grants to spouses and children of impaired or disabled physicians or physicians whose ability to contribute to their family’s income has been compromised by health-related issues. The scholarship can be used by a spouse or dependent for postsecondary studies in a university or accredited program to further his or her educational goals and subsequent job skills. Selection is based on financial need, and all personal information is kept confidential.

It is crucial that APA members share information on scholarship availability with families of peers or patients who would be eligible to apply, as well as other professionals in the community who counsel families, stressed Tasman.