Congressman Derek Kilmer of Washington’s 6th district joined the Alzheimer’s Association Washington State Chapter at the Pierce County Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Tacoma on Sept. 15, 2019.
Since becoming a member of Congress in 2013, Congressman Kilmer has been a strong supporter of Alzheimer’s Association priorities. These are to improve care and support for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, and dramatically increase Alzheimer’s research at the National Institutes of Health. A member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Kilmer has worked successfully to increase federal funding of Alzheimer’s research four-fold in just five years.
The following is a transcript of Congressman Kilmer’s remarks during the Walk to End Alzheimer’s opening ceremony:
“Alright, Tacoma. Today, by showing up, you show that you are committed to ending Alzheimer’s.
You show it by weathering the rain. You show it by skipping the Seahawks. You show it by standing up and walking, and fighting the fight to end Alzheimer’s.
I’m here to say one thing and that is: thank you. Your presence matters. Because of you, we have been able to have a four-fold increase in research to end Alzheimer’s. That’s because of you — and I am with you.
Because of you, we’ve seen increased investment in early detection and diagnosis. That’s because of you, and I want to say thank you for that.
Because of you, we are increasing resources for caregivers and making a big difference in the lives of people who are living with Alzheimer’s — and I want to say thank you for that. I am with you.
We still have a long way to go. I just want to say thank you for showing up, not just today — for showing up in Washington, DC, where your Association does a phenomenal job, for showing up at the town hall meetings and in Congressional offices to advocate.
You have given your time, your talent, your treasure, to combat this disease, and I want to say thank you for that. I want you to know that I am with you, because together, we can end Alzheimer’s. Thanks everybody. Thank you for being here.”
Are you interested in learning more about federal and state policies impacting people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia? Join us at one of our 11 annual public policy Town Halls happening this fall across Washington and northern Idaho.
The Town Halls include a brief presentation and a panel discussion featuring local experts and people impacted by the disease, who will share their experiences and offer perspectives on the issues being presented. There will also be time for Q&A at the end of the presentation. Town Halls are free to attend! Learn more here.