Letter to the Editor: Thank you, Rep. Meng for BOLD Support of People With Alzheimer’s

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng. Photo via U.S. House

By Eric Renfroe

Thanks to the support of Rep. Grace Meng, the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act, was recently signed into law.

Rep. Meng has shown herself to be a strong advocate for Queens, as well as the Alzheimer’s community. She has continued to ensure that her constituents receive the support they need, especially those with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.

Alzheimer’s disease has become a public health crisis, costing $277 billion annually in healthcare costs. A national public health crisis calls for a coordinated public health response.

With the continued support of legislators like Rep. Meng, BOLD will deliver that public health response. BOLD will establish Alzheimer’s Centers of Excellence to promote early detection and diagnosis and create clearinghouses for effective interventions. The legislation also aims to improve the analysis and reporting of Alzheimer’s data at both the state and national levels.

This infrastructure will help to alleviate some of the emotional and financial burdens that Alzheimer’s places on individual families.

When my late-grandmother, Roslyn Shapiro, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we were fortunate that she and my grandfather had savings. The family was not forced into a dire financial situation in an effort to provide her with the best care. However, I know that many families are not as fortunate.

As an Alzheimer’s Association, New York City Chapter ambassador, I thank Rep. Meng for her continued aid in the fight against Alzheimer’s. With her support in congress and the support of the community, I know that one day we will find a cure.

Eric Renfroe lives in Queens.