At Alzheimer's Association Advocacy Forum, Melody Barnes reaffirms administration commitment to fighting Alzheimer's

May 16, 2011

During a lunchtime program, Melody Barnes, President Obama's domestic policy advisor and director of the Domestic Policy Council, spoke to advocates about the Obama administration's commitment to furthering the fight against Alzheimer's disease.

After recognizing the Alzheimer's Association as a key partner in the progression of Alzheimer's-related legislation, Barnes emphasized the president's visibility to the Alzheimer's crisis.

"President Obama takes the fight against Alzheimer's disease seriously," said Barnes. "Our administration has made it a priority. We are committed to working closely with you and others around the country to meet our shared goals."

Barnes went on to acknowledge the critical need for increased awareness in order to achieve change in Alzheimer's research, care and support.

"I am proud to work for a president who understands the urgent need for progress," she said. "I don't think enough people know that Alzheimer's disease is the sixth-leading cause of death in the nation. That's why the president has me and my colleagues working to pursue a path to deal with the progression of the disease and ultimately to cure and prevent it."

Barnes recapped some of the efforts of the administration during the past year, including a White House meeting with advocates, researchers and other Alzheimer's experts on World Alzheimer's Day (Sept. 21), and the president signing the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) into law on Jan. 4, 2011.

While referencing NAPA, which will create a national strategic plan to address the Alzheimer's crisis, Barnes promised swift action, including the selection of committee members that will outline the plan.

"The National Alzheimer's Project Act represents our next steps to further research and awareness," said Barnes. "We are pushing ahead because we cannot afford to wait. We are laying a foundation that will carry on once advisory council members are named."

Barnes reminded advocates that the power of NAPA rests partially in its ability to help Congress evaluate progress made to slow the disease.

"The National Alzheimer's Project Act will allow Congress to assess if we are meeting the challenges of the disease for families and the economy," she said.

Barnes also acknowledged the personal nature of the fight against Alzheimer's by referencing some of the stories of advocates in the room.

"The consequences of Alzheimer's reaches far beyond any one individual," Barnes said. "Stories like yours drive us forward as we work to implement a national plan."

Barnes concluded by inviting advocates to continue challenging the administration.

"We can and must work together to tenaciously confront this disease," said Barnes. "It is people like all of you that give us the inspiration to keep fighting. We look to you to push us and we look forward to meeting your demands."

Advocate Katori Brown, Miss Black District of Columbia, was heartened by Barnes' words. Brown selected Alzheimer's awareness as her platform issue because her grandmother died from the disease.

"It feels like the Obama administration is looking to be at the forefront of the fight against Alzheimer's and that they are making a commitment," she said. "I can only hope that they are."

Alzheimer's Association Advocacy Forum 2012
www.alz.org/forum
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