In this heartfelt and candid episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards opens up about the unexpected challenges that life threw his way. Originally planned as a thoughtful interview with a Very Special Caregiver, the episode takes a different turn when Jeff shares a deeply personal and emotional update on his wife’s health.

Jeff’s wife experienced a severe side effect from an amyloid-clearing drug, resulting in brain swelling and a brain bleed, leading to hospitalization. For a brief period, she lost the use of her left arm, leg, and vision in both eyes. Jeff reflects on the intense fear and uncertainty of the situation, offering thanks to the dedicated doctors, nurses, and the powerful network of prayer warriors who supported them through this crisis. The episode's tone is warm, serious, and raw, as Jeff expresses his gratitude for the care his wife received, and assures listeners that a more in-depth discussion will come in a later episode.

Despite the setback, GutPunched carries on, delivering valuable resources for caregivers facing their own struggles. In a condensed format, Jeff shares insightful articles highlighting advancements in Alzheimer’s research, offering hope for those living with and caring for loved ones affected by the disease.

In true GutPunched style, Jeff revisits the podcast’s essential tenets for caregivers, emphasizing self-care, the importance of asking for help, and utilizing a network of support. He also introduces the idea of a “Help Signal,” a simple yet effective way for caregivers and their loved ones to communicate and ensure that help is received with ease and comfort.

This episode may be shorter than usual, but it’s filled with the same compassion, understanding, and practical advice that make GutPunched a vital resource for caregivers.

Remember, you’re not alone—whether it’s the hard days or the good days, you’ve got a community here to lean on.

Stay tuned for the upcoming full interview in the next episode!

In Episode 66, host Jeff Edwards reflects on a week that was “mixed, but mostly positive” — a theme echoed in the episode’s encouraging developments in Alzheimer’s research and caregiving support. Jeff shares personal insights from a busy week, including a promising meeting that may bring exciting news for the podcast’s Hispanic audience, and another eye-opening caregiver support meeting.

While a planned segment featuring “A Different Kind of Caregiver” wasn’t ready in time for this episode, Jeff promises its arrival in the next installment. In the meantime, Episode 66 delivers a compelling lineup of new studies and stories:

• 🎶 Music and Brain Health: A new study suggests that playing a musical instrument may slow brain aging.

• 💊 Hope on the Horizon: A cancer drug combination shows potential to reverse Alzheimer’s symptoms.

• ⚠️ Medication Alert: A common chronic pain medication is now being linked to dementia.

As always, Jeff revisits the core GutPunched Tenets, offering practical, heartfelt advice for caregivers — from self-care reminders to strategies for building a reliable support network and creating a help signal for loved ones.

This episode also highlights vital resources like:

• The Dubin Center (dubincenter.com)

• Alzheimer’s Support Network (alzsupport.org)

• The Alzheimer’s Association Dementia Care Navigation Service – Call 855-271-2662 for free, personalized support

• And the newly formed GUTPUNCHED Facebook Group

Jeff closes the episode with gratitude for the community helping to grow the podcast, and a heartfelt reminder: There is help and hope out there—you just need to know where to look. That’s why we’re here.

📧 Reach out: gutpunchedAC@outlook.com or jeff@gutpunched.com
🌐 Learn more: gutpunched.com

Welcome to GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, Episode 65!

Ever wondered what happens when Alzheimer’s, an author, a poet, dementia, a musician, and a nurse all walk into a room together? No, it’s not the setup for a bad joke—it’s the perfect mix for today’s podcast!

Our guest today is Mr. Bob Shea from Elder Entertainment, a creative dynamo with a heart for Alzheimer's awareness. Bob, who wears many hats (author, poet, musician, nurse), joins host Jeff Edwards to share his unique perspective on Alzheimer's care and the healing power of creativity.

Plus, don’t miss the latest Alzheimer’s research! We wrap up with an article about a promising Diabetes Blood Test that could predict Alzheimer’s decline. Talk about medical breakthroughs Science is awesome and sometimes, even a little mind-blowing.

As always, we start by revisiting the GutPunched Tenets—the rules we live by, because let’s face it, caregiving can be tough, and you’ve gotta be on top of your game to survive it:

1. Take care of yourself—if you break down, who’s there for your loved one?

2. You can’t do this alone—find a good support network.

3. Make a list of people who’ve offered help. Write down what needs doing and go through the list until it’s all handled.

4. Create a “help signal”—something that tells your loved one it's okay to get the help they need.

Then we get a little poetic with a reading from Bob’s book, Peekaboo: I See Miracles—Musings of Musical Memories and Alzheimer’s Disease. A hauntingly beautiful first stanza of his poem “In Here” sets the stage for a conversation that’s as deep as it is creative.

After the interview, Jeff and Bob share their thoughts on the magic that happens when creativity meets caregiving, a reminder that even in the toughest times, there’s always room for something meaningful and maybe even a little joyful.

Whether you’re a caregiver or just curious, this episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and a touch of humor. So grab your coffee (or your harmonica) and tune in!

Listen now! 🎙️ [gutpunched.com/] #Alzheimers #Caregivers #GutPunchedPodcast #ElderCare #AlzheimersAwareness #NewEpisode