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Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month   Printer Friendly

WHEREAS, in 1906, the German neurologist and psychologist Dr. Alois Alzheimer described a progressive, degenerative brain disease caused by “plaques and tangles,” now known as Alzheimer’s disease; and

WHEREAS, Alzheimer’s disease is a complex disease that affects brain function and causes serious mental deterioration; and

WHEREAS, The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that approximately four million Americans – one in eight adults over the age of sixty-five – are currently living with this debilitating disease, and it is estimated that in the year 2010 there will be over 6,000 Alaskans living with Alzheimer’s disease; and

WHEREAS, progress is being made in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, and breakthroughs such as vaccines, new treatments, and new diagnostic tools are steps toward finding a cure; and

WHEREAS, Alaskans with Alzheimer’s, their families, and their caregivers statewide can turn to the Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska for education, support, and services.

NOW, THEREFORE, I Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim November 2009 as:

Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

in Alaska, and encourage all citizens to support those whose lives have been affected by the disease, to be an encouragement and support to the family members who are caring for those with Alzheimer’s, and to strengthen our resolve and increase our efforts to win the battle against Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

Dated: November 5, 2009