Senator Johnston Affirms Commitment to Finding a Cure for Alzheimer’s Disease

Thursday, September 6 2012

DENVER— Today, Senator Mike Johnston (D-Denver) expressed his commitment to continued support and research efforts to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease during an event led by the Alzheimer’s Association. Today’s event sought to raise awareness about the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s disease, the advancement of the Colorado State Alzheimer’s Plan, and the new Alzheimer’s disease research being conducted at the University of Colorado’s Denver Campus. Senator Johnston’s father has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and the Denver senator has been a dedicated advocate for those suffering from the disease and their families.

Senator Johnston offered the following comment today:

“I’m proud to join all the families and loved ones of the more than 70,000 people in Colorado who are struggling with Alzheimer’s disease right now. We heard testimony today from other people who, like me, are trying to find ways to care for and support their family members. It is more important than ever that the federal government invest in research to find a cure, and provide critical investment and support for families who need care.”

Today’s event also featured Alzheimer’s Association President and CEO Linda Mitchell and Huntington Potter, PhD., the new Director of Alzheimer’s Disease Programs at the University of Colorado-Denver. Alzheimer’s Association Board Chair Kelly Rogers also presented a tribute to Fred Wolfe, a Colorado man who has walked from Denver to Vail each of the past eight years in honor of his father who died of Alzheimer’s.

The Alzheimer Association’s Colorado Chapter provides information, support, and advocacy efforts for more than 72,000 Coloradans with Alzheimer’s disease and their families. Free services provided include counseling, support groups, Medic Alert and Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return, and a 24 hour helpline.