#2 Legendary Journalists Al Hunt and Judy Woodruff Share Their Family's Story of Resilience

What happens when life throws an unimaginable curveball, testing the resilience of an entire family?

On this episode of Curveball, Scott Reich hosts Judy Woodruff and Al Hunt, both giants in the field of journalism, as they share the deeply personal and moving story of their son Jeffrey's battle with the aftermath of a medical mistake. Faced with an unexpected turn after a botched brain surgery left him significantly impaired, Judy and Al reflect on their journey through adversity, career challenges, and the power of family bonds.

Listeners will Learn:

• The unexpected ways Judy and Al's lives were altered by their son Jeffrey's botched surgery and the long-term impact on their family dynamics.
• Insights into how they balanced high-profile journalism careers while managing special needs caregiving.
• The profound influence this experience has had on their approach to public affairs, advocacy, and professional pursuits.

This conversation offers a touching exploration of love, determination, and the human capacity to find purpose amid profound loss and challenge.

Our Guests:

Judy Woodruff and Al Hunt

Key Moments:

(03:27) Spina bifida is a spinal defect forming in the sixth week of pregnancy, often unnoticed. In 1981, for Judy, it was identified during an ultrasound at eight months due to abnormal brain ventricles, indicating possible spina bifida or hydrocephalus.

(08:53) Emotionally challenging experiences can be eased by the goodness and support of caregivers, physicians, and scientists striving to help vulnerable people.

(13:26) Emotionally challenging experiences can be eased by the goodness and support of caregivers, physicians, and scientists striving to help vulnerable people.

(17:28) A parent grapples with balancing attention between their neurotypical children and a child with medical needs, while feeling ongoing grief and missing milestones in the affected child's life.

(21:51) Missed opportunity for a family discussion on loss and emotions.

(24:35) Greater awareness of disability issues has led to a focus on quality of life challenges and advocating for increased journalism covering these topics.