Invest in Alzheimer's Research to Support Caregivers!

This November, during National Family Caregivers Month, I recognize that Alzheimer’s is not just devastating for the more than 5 million Americans living with the disease, but also for the more than 16 million family and friends serving as caregivers. Caring for someone living with dementia is a long and arduous experience. As one of those caregivers, I understand how draining and isolating this disease truly is. I am an only child and was my Mother’s only caregiver, first at home then as her advocate in a long term care facility. The emotional burden is with you 24/7. I essentially gave up my life (except for my career) to be there for her.

Caring for my Mother with Alzheimer’s and seeing the other families in her facility made me realize that more could be done in our fight to end this terrible disease, and that’s why I became a volunteer advocate with the Alzheimer’s Association. I’m dedicated to helping our elected officials better understand the challenges associated with dementia and how Congress can help! Our leaders have made this disease a priority in the past, and that’s why I’m calling on our Representative Mike Quigley and Senator Dick Durbin again this year to support an additional $354 million in Alzheimer’s and dementia research funding. These dollars are helping us make the inroads necessary to eradicating the disease that has stricken our loved ones and has caused so much of a burden on caregivers' lives.

Please join me in asking Congressman Quigley and Senator Dick Durbin to continue investing in Alzheimer’s and all other dementia so we can offer hope to those affected.

Daneen Jachino

Chicago, Illinois 60614