WASHINGTON, D.C., March 28, 2017 - During the Alzheimer's Association National Alzheimer's Dinner, Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) and Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY) were presented the Alzheimer's Impact Movement (AIM) 2017 Humanitarian Award. The AIM 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.
Congressman Cole and Congresswoman Lowey have been steadfast supporters for increased investments in research and efforts to improve care for Alzheimer's and other dementias. In his role as Chairman of the House Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Subcommittee, and her role as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, respectively, Reps. Cole and Lowey have been influential in Alzheimer's research funding at the National Institutes of Health reaching a historic $991 million.
At a cost of $259 billion, including $175 billion in direct cost to Medicare and Medicaid, Alzheimer's is the most expensive disease in the nation. More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's or another dementia, the only leading cause of death without a way to prevent, cure or even slow its progression.
"In the past few years we have seen historic increases in Alzheimer's research funding at the NIH, and for the first time ever people living with Alzheimer's have access to care planning through Medicare," said Robert Egge, Executive Director of AIM. "These successes would not be possible without Representatives Cole and Lowey. We look forward to continuing to work with the Representatives on issues impacting the Alzheimer's community."
Congressman Cole was presented his award by Bob Thomas, a member of the AIM Board of Directors, and fellow Oklahoman. Congresswoman Lowey was presented her award by advocate Jane Cahn. The awards were distributed at the National Alzheimer's Dinner, during the Alzheimer's Association 2017 Advocacy Forum. A record more than 1,200 Alzheimer's Association advocates from across the country gathered in Washington to bring attention to Alzheimer's and urge Congress to further increase research funding for Alzheimer's and other dementias at the National Institutes of Health.
To further recognize the accomplishments of these leaders on behalf of the Alzheimer's community, AIM congratulated Congressman Cole and Congresswoman Lowey in newspaper advertisements in Oklahoma and New York, respectively.
