Facing Huntington’s Disease: A Candid Conversation with Eric Smith on The Lofty Lender
On this week’s episode of The Lofty Lender, we stepped away from mortgages and money talk to shine a light on something far more personal. I sat down with my colleague and friend, Eric Smith, to have an honest, emotional, and deeply impactful conversation about his family’s journey with Huntington’s Disease (HD), his own gene-positive status, and the difficult decisions that come with preparing for an uncertain future.
While The Lofty Lender typically focuses on real estate and financial literacy, this episode is a powerful reminder that behind every mortgage file is a human story—sometimes marked by invisible battles, quiet strength, and the kind of resilience that inspires us all.
What Is Huntington’s Disease?
Huntington’s Disease is often described as a combination of ALS, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s—symptoms that include involuntary movement, memory decline, and severe mood changes. It’s genetic, meaning that every child of a parent with HD has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the gene. And while there is no cure, awareness and participation in ongoing research are key to driving progress.
As Eric shared, HD is more than a diagnosis—it’s a life-changing reality for families. With four of his five siblings testing positive or showing symptoms, it’s a disease that has left no part of his life untouched.
Eric’s Journey
Eric first learned of HD when two of his brothers began showing odd physical symptoms—hand twitches, clicking noises, repeated words. After years of confusion, testing, and misdiagnoses, his family learned the truth: it was Huntington’s. Eric’s decision to get tested came years later, prompted by a desire to prepare for the future and protect his children’s options for life insurance and support.
After a multi-step genetic testing process through the Center of Excellence in Iowa City, Eric received the news: he is gene-positive, with a CAG repeat count of 40—meaning he will eventually develop the disease, though he currently shows no symptoms.
What followed was one of the most gut-wrenching parts of the story—telling his sons, knowing each of them also faces that same 50/50 risk. Despite that, Eric and his wife Jodi have become pillars of strength, taking proactive steps to educate, prepare, and support not only their family but others who are affected by HD.
Why This Conversation Matters
This episode isn't just a story about Huntington’s Disease—it’s a call to action. Eric is actively participating in clinical trials and studies to support future breakthroughs in treatment. He emphasizes the importance of early preparation, honest conversations with loved ones, and the need for strong support systems.
Many people don’t get tested due to fear, stigma, or the potential impact on insurance. But awareness and involvement can drive research forward. Organizations like the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) are making a real impact with resources, community support, and funding for centers of excellence like the one in Iowa City.
How You Can Help
Eric’s story is a reminder that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is share. We invite you to take action by:
Visiting HDSA.org to learn more or donate
Participating in local HD events like the Team Hope Walk (every year in May) or the annual gala (Nov 15, 2025)
Reaching out to your own loved ones and starting the conversation
Listening and sharing this episode of The Lofty Lender
Listen Now
If you haven’t already, be sure to listen to this special episode of The Lofty Lender, featuring Eric Smith. It’s available wherever fine podcasts are downloaded—just search for The Lofty Lender or follow the hashtag #TallMoneyMan.
🎧 Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts – we’re everywhere!
We hope this episode touched your heart and maybe even opened your mind to something new. Thank you, Eric, for your courage—and thank you, listener, for being part of the conversation.
Until next week, stay curious.
— Kyle Guldenpfennig, aka #TallMoneyMan
