June 2021: Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month

WHEREAS, Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative brain disorder which tragically robs individuals of their memories and leads to progressive mental and physical impairments; and,

 

WHEREAS, there are no known treatments to prevent, cure, or even delay the onset or slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease; and,

 

WHEREAS, in the United States, an estimated six million people aged 65 and over have Alzheimer's disease and another 200,000 people under age 65 have younger-onset Alzheimer's disease; and,

 

WHEREAS, according to the Alzheimer's Association, in Michigan, about 190,000 people aged 65 and older have Alzheimer's, and Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of overall death in the United States and fifth leading cause among the elderly; and,

 

WHEREAS, researchers are working hard to seek a cause or cure in recognition of the individuals, families, friends, and caregivers who experience and help with Alzheimer's disease; and,

 

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan recognizes the efforts of the Alzheimer's Association to raise funds and promote awareness to fight Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, thereby improving the quality of human life for those living with Alzheimer's disease as well as their caregivers; and,

 

WHEREAS, the month of June 2021 has been declared Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month to raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease, provide support to those who suffer from the disease as well as their caregivers, and promote more research to find treatment and ultimately a cure;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 2021 as Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month and encourage all residents to wear purple to help spread global awareness of the Alzheimer's Association's vision of imagining a world without Alzheimer's disease.