Leaders in Washington listened on Alzheimer's

Recently, I had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., with the Alzheimer's Association for their annual Advocacy Forum. Alongside more than 1,200 other advocates from across the country, we stormed the Hill in our purple sashes to advocate for increased Alzheimer's research funding and for support of crucial legislation.

The chance to meet with my representatives afforded me the opportunity to share my story and advocate in the fight against Alzheimer's. At 62, my husband, Bill, passed away from younger-onset Alzheimer's disease, leaving behind three children and me. My hope is that other families in the future will not be affected by this devastating disease.

This was my ninth year attending the forum and I am happy to share that the movement to end Alzheimer's has grown and continued progress will be achieved if we all work together.

I wanted to thank Sen. Tammy Duckworth's staff and Congressman Peter Roskam and his staff for taking the time to meet with me and my fellow Illinois advocates. I am grateful for their taking the time to discuss supporting the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act, which would greatly enhance the nation's view of Alzheimer's as a public health crisis, and increased funding for Alzheimer's research. Sen. Duckworth and Congressman Roskam, who is currently a co-sponsor of BOLD, have continually proven to be a champions of the Alzheimer's Association and our meetings in Washington indicated just how dedicated they are to the cause. We are making a difference - let's keep the momentum going.

Cathy Perkowitz

Wheaton