[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 43 (Monday, November 3, 2008)]
[Pages 1388-1389]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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Proclamation 8312--National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, 2008

 October 29, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    During National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, we recognize 
the dignity and courage of the men and women living with Alzheimer's 
disease. We also honor the devoted family members and caretakers who 
bring them love and comfort, and we underscore our dedication to finding 
a cure for this tragic disease.
    Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that seriously impairs a 
person's ability to function normally. Age is the most important known 
risk factor, and scientists are studying the role that genetics, 
education, diet, and environment might play in the development of this 
debilitating disease. Through research supported by the National 
Institutes of Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs, we are 
learning more about the disease and enhancing the quality of life for 
those affected. In addition, the Department of Health and Human Services 
is improving the delivery of home and community-based services to people 
with Alzheimer's.
    National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month is an opportunity to 
pay tribute to the courageous individuals facing this disease and 
remember the precious lives lost due to Alzheimer's. All Americans 
appreciate the strong support and dedication of the families, medical 
professionals, scientific researchers, and caregivers who are helping 
build a society that values the life and dignity of every person.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2008 as 
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. I call upon the people of 
the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs and 
activities.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth 
day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:15 a.m., October 30, 
2008]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on October 
31.

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