Thank You Congressman Rush

Thank you, Congressman Rush!

As a dedicated advocate working to end Alzheimer’s disease, I am writing to express my gratitude for Congressman, Bobby Rush. He has not only been a long-time supporter of the Alzheimer’s Association and their vital requests for increased research appropriations, but he is also one of the first Illinois co-sponsors of the Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Act (PCHETA). When enacted, this bill that will ensure an adequate, well-trained palliative care workforce through training, education, awareness, and enhanced research.

Palliative and hospice care are specific medical approaches that focuses on increasing support for patients and their caregiver. Additionally, methods are utilized for comfort and pain management. People with Alzheimer’s and other dementias rely heavily on this care and it is both a more humane and oftentimes cost effective method for delivering care.

Having worked with older adults, I have personally seen the toll this terrible disease takes. I continue to fight for those that don’t have a voice. I advocate so my children don’t have to struggle as caregivers for me, and I am dedicated to creating a world without Alzheimer’s so future generations won’t be burdened by this undignified, heartbreaking and horrendous disease.

Congressman Rush’s support of PCHETA and our greater mission to end Alzheimer’s must be acknowledged. I am so grateful to know that I, along with the almost 1 million patients and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s in Illinois have a partner and ally in Rep. Rush.

Together, if advocates, professionals and legislators work together, we have the opportunity to eradicate the most expensive disease in America. Thank you Congressman Rush – I look forward to our continued work together.

- Katie B.