Muskie’s Bridge was founded by Jackie Horvath in memory of her late husband, Andy “Muskie” Horvath. Andy’s journey highlighted the critical role family caregivers play in supporting loved ones through illness and navigating healthcare challenges. Today, Muskie’s Bridge exists to ensure that no family caregiver feels alone in their journey.
Muskie’s Bridge equips family caregivers with the knowledge and confidence to support their loved ones.
The BRIDGE framework represents the qualities of an effective caregiver.
Beautiful:
A compassionate heart dedicated to helping others.
Respectful:
Honoring patient wishes and the healthcare team’s expertise.
Involved & Invested:
Being an active voice in patient care.
Dependable:
Providing stability and comfort to your loved one.
Gracious:
Leading with kindness and patience in difficult times.
Engaged:
Participating emotionally, mentally, and physically in care.
Ligonier is buzzing with excitement as we get closer to our town’s anniversary celebration of our country’s 250th on July 18th!
Swing by Abigail’s on the diamond on July 18th to discover how you, your family, or your business can make a lasting impact by learning how you can add an entry to the Muskie’s Bridge time capsule on September 12th at the Ligonier trail.
We still share the same shadow honey!
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Muskie’s memorial bench is located on the Ligonier, PA trail near Peoples Road. On September 12, time capsules will be placed in the two large spaces within each foundation pillar, where they will remain for 25 years and be opened on May 2, 2051.
This September 12th date aligns with our country’s 250th anniversary. For more information, please visit our website or sign up for the Bridge to Bench annual celebration.
MuskiesBridge.org
runsignup.com/Race/PA/Ligonier/MBBridgeToBench
An informational Muskie’s Bridge time capsule table will be available at the following events:
Freedom 5K in Greensburg on July 4, at Lynch Field, from 8:00 to 10:30 a.m.
Abigail’s Coffeehouse in Ligonier during Ligonier’s 250th celebration on July 18, 2026.
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To coincide with the 250th anniversary of our country, the Muskie’s Bridge Foundation is placing two-time capsules in the base of the Muskie’s Bench on the Ligonier trail. You can receive more information (from Jackie) at Freedom 5K Greensburg on the Fourth of July or at Abigail’s in Ligonier during the town celebration on July 18th.
The Ligonier Library was given a $250 contribution to help ensure our history will be preserved. This has been noted in the township supervisors’ minute books. The time capsules will be opened in 25 years, in 2051. I hope you’ll all be there for that moment as well.
A special thank-you to McKlveen Supply in Ligonier for generously donating the beautiful riverwalk that surrounds Muskie’s Bench.
Jackie aka Mrs. Muskie
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I would like to sincerely congratulate all the graduates of Mount Aloysius College and my fellow alumni.
Especially the MBA students, who dedicated themselves to working endless hours researching and developing strategies to take Muskies Bridge to the next level.
Muskies Bridge has now bridged another gap: the “gap of generations”!
A special thank you to Dr. Emily Housekneck, fellow Muskie’s Board member, former professor, and, most importantly, friend, for making this opportunity possible—one that countless people will benefit from.
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On behalf of the Muskie’s Bridge Foundation,
I, Jackie Horvath, thank the Ligonier Valley Business & Professional Women for the opportunity to present Muskies Bridge.
Our mission is to improve communication by educating caregivers and working together for better patient outcomes.
I also appreciate the chance to share our upcoming fundraiser/event Sept 12th to place two time capsules in Ligonier as part of the 250th anniversary celebration.
For more information, please call 814-421-1401 or email [email protected]
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Thoughts from an aging athlete:
Embracing how our bodies change enables us to continue doing what defines us “that crazy girl runner from Ligonier” and helps to endure our life's challenges. Eleven years after my last Pittsburgh race, I returned for the half marathon as a birthday tradition for my husband, though this time I went alone and reflected on personal growth. Running without a watch, I focused on the experience rather than the finish time. What meant more to me was what I endured after the race, I was able to treat nine of my patients who if I didn’t show up the likelihood that they would walk on this day was highly unlikely. Caring for my patients reminds me to stay humble and grateful.
Final thoughts:
At 62, completing a half marathon is a full!
And although far from my half marathon PR of 127:15, I like the ring to 157:57!!
Happy birthday Andrew/Andy/Muskie. I hope you enjoyed the show.
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Many family caregivers face unique challenges—your story can inspire change. Muskie’s Bridge welcomes personal experiences and feedback to improve family caregiver advocacy.
Engage with fellow family caregivers in our support networks.
Contact us to explore partnership options.
