Katie Brandt Featured in The Unexpected Journey

By Amy Almeida

                                                                                                 

September 9, 2025

When her husband, Bruce, was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Emma Heming Willis walked out of the doctor’s office with nothing but a pamphlet, fear and uncertainty. After learning more about FTD, she wrote The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path, the book she wished someone had placed in her hands that day.  Based on her experience and with insights from leading experts, The Unexpected Journey is intended to help other care partners feel less isolated, better prepared, and empowered to navigate this journey with strength and support.  The Unexpected Journey is available for purchase today.

One of those leading experts Emma Heming Willis consulted is Katie Brandt, the Director of Caregiver Support Services and Public Relations at the MGH FTD Unit. “In her compassionate and authentic voice, Emma Heming Willis has succeeded in her goal of providing a safe space for caregivers to connect and learn that while we do not yet have a cure for dementia, we do have a cure for the isolation and loneliness that may come along with a dementia diagnosis. It was a privilege to contribute to this gift to the caregiving community.”

In conjunction with National Family Caregiver Month, the MGH FTD Unit will be hosting in-person and online book discussions about The Unexpected Journey throughout November. Discussion will be facilitated by MGH FTD Unit staff.  Learn more at the links below.