WASHINGTON, D.C., April 6, 2016 - At the Alzheimer's Association National Alzheimer's Dinner, Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) were honored with the Alzheimer's Impact Movement 2016 Humanitarian Award. The Alzheimer's Impact Movement Humanitarian Award recognizes public officials who have made a significant policy contribution to advancements in research, care and support for people with Alzheimer's disease.
Throughout their Congressional careers, the Senators have been steadfast supporters for increased investments in research and efforts to improve care for Alzheimer's and other dementias. In their roles as Senate Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman and Ranking Member, respectively, Sens. Blunt and Murray were instrumental in an historic $350 million increase for Alzheimer's disease research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in December 2015.
Today, more than five million people are living with Alzheimer's, the most expensive disease in the nation and the only leading cause of death in the U.S. without a way to prevent, cure or even slow its progression. Total national cost of caring for those with Alzheimer's and other dementias is estimated at $236 billion (excluding unpaid caregiving), of which $160 billion is the cost to Medicare and Medicaid.
"On behalf of Alzheimer's advocates across the country, the Alzheimer's Impact Movement joins the Alzheimer's Association in commending Senators Blunt and Murray for their leadership and commitment that is enabling critical Alzheimer's research to finally move forward at an accelerating pace," said Robert Egge, Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Impact Movement. "We look forward to continuing to work with the Senators on issues impacting the Alzheimer's community."
Senator Blunt accepted his award at the dinner which took place during the Alzheimer's Association 2016 Advocacy Forum. The Advocacy Forum was attended by a record 1,200 individuals from across the country advocating for added attention and resources for Alzheimer's care, support and research efforts. Senator Murray was presented her award by a delegation from the Washington State Alzheimer's Association Chapter during a visit to her office on April 6.
To further recognize the accomplishments of these leaders on behalf of the Alzheimer's community, the Alzheimer's Impact Movement congratulated Senator Blunt and Senator Murray through newspaper advertisements placed in Missouri and Washington, respectively.
