Adrienne Ross of Medway joined over 1,300 other advocates from across the nation in Washington D.C., at the Alzheimer’s Association Advocacy Forum on March 27-29.
In 2008, Osborne’s father was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s at just 50 years old. Shortly after his diagnosis, Adrienne knew she wanted to get involved with the Alzheimer’s Association. She joined the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and has been an active participant for over 9 years. Three years ago, Osborne took her commitment further by joining the Neponset Valley Walk to End Alzheimer’s planning committee, this year she sits as the committee’s co-chair.
Osborne notes that each year, she looks for more opportunities to get involved to support research and care for those impacted by Alzheimer’s. She heard of the Association’s Advocacy forum years ago, but mentioned she was nervous to attend, “Talking to members of Congress always seemed so intimidating to me. This year, I finally just took the plunge and registered for the Forum, and am so glad I did!”
The Alzheimer’s Association Advocacy Forum seeks to educate members of Congress about the impact of Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. At the forum, Ross attended seminars on Alzheimer policy issues, networked with advocates across the country and had the opportunity to share her personal story on Capitol Hill with local members of Congress.
“I had the time of my life and was able to share my personal story with Congressman Joe Kennedy, as well as Senator Markey and several other MA representatives or their aides,” said Ross.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States and the only disease in the top 10 that cannot be prevented, cured or slowed.
“We know that Alzheimer’s disease remains one of the most critical public health issues in America,” said Daniel Zotos, Director of Public Policy of the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter. “As we continue to push for research funding and improvement in care and treatment, we need more advocates like Adrienne to give those impacted by Alzheimer’s a voice.”
To learn more about advocacy opportunities with the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter visit alz.org/MANH.
Issue Date:
May, 2017
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