Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers EP 85 HOPE

Welcome to 2026, and welcome back to Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers. Host Jeff Edwards opens the year by tackling one word that caregivers often feel has disappeared after a devastating diagnosis: HOPE.

When Alzheimer’s or dementia enters your life, the first feeling is often no hope — medically, emotionally, spiritually. In this episode, Jeff unpacks what hope really means, why losing it impacts both health and well-being, and why reclaiming it matters now more than ever. From psychology and medical science to faith-based reflection, this conversation explores how hope isn’t denial, it’s survival.

Jeff also breaks down current dementia therapies (as of December 2025), highlighting where real progress is being made and what caregivers should know going forward.

In the second half of the episode, Jeff reconnects with an old friend: BJ Odom, a man who jokingly describes himself as having “More Parts Than a Chicken Nugget,” the title of his newly released book. Through hardship, humor, and relentless perseverance, this guest embodies what living with hope truly looks like. His story is honest, emotional, hilarious, and deeply human, filled with laughter, tears, and optimism from start to finish.

As always, Jeff revisits the GutPunched Caregiver Tenets, essential reminders that caregiving is not a solo mission, self-care is non-negotiable, and asking for help is not a weakness.

This episode is a reminder to every caregiver who feels exhausted, isolated, or overwhelmed:
You are not alone. There is help. And yes, there is hope.

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