In this special Podcastathon episode of Sports ‘N Torts, host Joshua Stein steps away from the usual sports, law and business conversations to spotlight an issue affecting millions of families: Alzheimer’s disease.

Josh is joined by his mother-in-law Bobbi Kelman, caregiver for her husband Howard Kelman, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2019, and Dan Goerke, who lost his wife Denise to Alzheimer’s and now dedicates his time to supporting other families, like the Kelman's, through the Alzheimer’s Association.

Together, they share deeply personal stories about the realities of living with Alzheimer’s—from the early warning signs and the challenges of diagnosis to the emotional toll caregiving takes on families. The conversation also highlights the power of community, the importance of caregiver support, and the role of research and advocacy in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

Listeners will also learn about the work of the Alzheimer’s Association, ongoing research advancements, and meaningful ways individuals can help support families affected by the disease.

This episode is part of Podcastathon, a global initiative where podcasts dedicate episodes to raising awareness and support for charitable causes.

About This Episode

This episode is part of Podcastathon, a worldwide initiative where podcasts dedicate episodes to charitable causes. For this conversation, Sports ‘N Torts is raising awareness for Alzheimer’s disease and supporting the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Guests

Bobbi Kelman

Caregiver for her husband Howard Kelman, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2019. Bobbi shares the day-to-day realities of caregiving and the importance of patience, support, and staying present through the journey.

Dan Goerke

Volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association and former caregiver to his wife Denise, who passed away from Alzheimer’s. Dan now helps other families navigating the disease and advocates for increased research funding and caregiver support.

What We Discuss

The First Signs of Alzheimer’s

• Subtle memory changes that first raised concern
• The long path many families face before receiving a diagnosis
• Differences in diagnostic tools such as PET scans and spinal fluid testing

The Caregiver Journey

• How Alzheimer’s changes family roles
• The emotional and physical toll caregiving can take
• Why caregivers need support and community

Finding Joy in Difficult Moments

• The importance of humor and perspective
• Creating meaningful experiences through music, outings, and connection
• Why staying active can help Alzheimer’s patients maintain quality of life

Support and Community

• The value of respite care and companionship
• How caregiver support groups can make a difference
• The importance of accepting help from friends and family

The Alzheimer’s Association

• Funding critical research around the world
• Advocacy efforts that have increased research funding dramatically
• Education programs and caregiver resources

Raising Awareness

• The Walk to End Alzheimer’s
• Fundraising events and community involvement
• How listeners can make a difference

Key Alzheimer’s Statistics

• 7 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer’s disease
• 45–50 million people worldwide are affected
• Nearly 20 million Americans are directly impacted when including caregivers
• The U.S. spends $384 billion annually on Alzheimer’s care,