In this episode of the HOPES podcast, we meet Dawn, who took care of her partner of 35 years, Tom, throughout his life with HD. For caregivers, looking after a loved one with HD means facing the unfortunate realities of the disease, and looking for moments of connection in the worst of times. For some, it also means grieving your loved one before they pass. Listen in to hear Dawn and Tom’s story and how they weathered the end-of-life stage of HD that can be so difficult.

Content warning: This podcast discusses death and grief. There is also discussion of some everyday bodily functions, medical care, and hospital settings. Note: in the podcast, Dawn uses the term “BM” to refer to a bowel movement.

This podcast was produced by Cat Gonzales Fergesen. The illustration is by Kenneth Ronquillo based on photos contributed by Dawn.

Songs in this podcast: “The Devil is a Sad Spirit” by James Beaudreau, CC BY-NC-SA 3.0

“DJ” by Jahzzar, CC BY-SA 4.0

“Space (Outro)” by Andy Cohen, CC BY 4.0

“Interlude 9” by Ending Satellites, CC BY-NC-SA 3.0

“We’re from near and far” by Ending Satellites, CC BY-NC-SA 3.0

“A Day in Port-Royal” by Ending Satellites, CC BY-NC-SA 3.0

“Vladimir Estragon’ by Jahzzar, CC BY-SA 3.0

“No-End Ave” by Jahzzar, CC BY-SA 4.0

“Country Young” by Pheasant, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0