Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, is 88 years old and has met his fourth wife. The bad news, the kids don’t like her.
Here’s what we know from media reports: Dr. Aldrin has sued two of his three children and his former manager. Two children, Andy and Jan, had asked a court to name them as guardians citing his loss of cognitive function and dementia. Warrior that he is, Colonel Aldrin (ret.) came out fighting! He sued the kids, claimed they had transferred moneys from his foundation for their personal use and used his credit cards without his permission and sabotaged his love life. He made an appearance on Good Morning America excoriating his children and accused them of exploiting the elderly.
The ousted manager, Christina Korp, stated that “almost a year ago, some people began to exert undue influence on Buzz. These individuals began to actively try to drive a wedge between Buzz, his children and me, for what I fear is their own benefit.” Her argument is that because he has dementia he is vulnerable to manipulation.
My argument is that the kids and manager he is suing are doing exactly the same thing. This “fight” is about who gets to manipulate Col. Aldrin. His estate is valued at approximately $12 million. The two children are paid by the Aldrin Foundation, as was the former manager.
Lisa LaBonte met Buzz Aldrin because of their shared interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Electronics, Mathematics) education. She works for Carnegie Ventures and because of Col. Aldrin’s work has become a part of his business life. They are great friends.
Aldrin also has a girlfriend (unnamed) and the relationship has blossomed into something more. One can speculate as to her motive but the same can be said for the kids and former manager. Further, If Buzz Aldrin is happy…who cares? Doesn’t he deserve it?
All of this will be solved fairly soon as the “mental health’ tests have been administered and the courts will review the three different opinions. I’m only sad that a man who gave his life to service for our country (his children did not) has to defend his honor. The children did nothing for the $12 million but now feel as though its theirs to protect. I say, Buzz Aldrin’s life speaks for itself. Good for him making a last stand — no matter what the outcome!
Frances Reaves, Esq., a graduate of the University of Miami Law School, spent 10 years as a litigator/lobbyist. Today, she Is an accomplished business woman who, when her parents could no longer take care of themselves, learned the ins and outs of senior care (or the lack thereof). She founded Parent Your Parents to assist seniors and their children through the myriad pitfalls and options of “senior care” in the 21st Century. If you have any questions or comments contact Frances at hfrancesr@parentyourparents.com.
