E18: Hard Truths, Hidden Gifts, and Holding Boundaries

In this episode of ALS Caregivers & Beyond, co-hosts Mary Ward and Lara Garey welcome their second guest, Lisa Musselman — a fellow caregiver, advocate, and newly selected Elizabeth Dole Foundation Fellow.

Lisa shares her 14-year journey caring for her husband Andy, an Air Force veteran living with ALS and FTD, and reflects on how caregiving has unexpectedly awakened her passion for advocacy. Together, Mary, Lara, and Lisa dive into:

• The challenges of navigating VA systems and the fight for equitable care across the country.
• The gifts and blessings that can emerge in the midst of ALS — from lifelong friendships to unexpected community support.
• Balancing autonomy and boundaries in caregiving, and the toll of making hard decisions while honoring a loved ...