[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 129 (Friday, September 21, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1642]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    WORLD ALZHEIMER'S AWARENESS DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. PETER J. ROSKAM

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 21, 2012

  Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my support for the 
ongoing efforts of this body and the American people to conquer the 
devastating disease of Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's is one of the top 10 
causes of death in America, and the only one without a way to prevent, 
cure, or even slow its progression. While death rates from diseases 
such as stroke, heart disease, and breast cancer have fallen since the 
year 2000, deaths from Alzheimer's have increased by 66 percent.
  Alzheimer's disease affects over 5 million Americans who are cared 
for by more than 15 million caregivers. These caregivers shoulder the 
heavy burden of caring for their loved ones and forgoing paid positions 
while watching the disease progress without the possibility of a cure.
  I have several constituents who have been impacted by this disease 
but two stand out for me personally. Cathy and her daughter Grace have 
been tireless advocates for their cause. Cathy's husband was diagnosed 
with early onset Alzheimer's and she has seen the effects up close. 
Each year they have taken time out of their schedules to travel to DC 
and as well as my district office to update me on her husband's 
condition and express their hopes that we can get closer to curing this 
awful disease. Grace has even taken her advocacy to the Roll Call Forum 
to speak on her mother and father's behalf. This is why I support the 
National Alzheimer's Plan.

                          ____________________