I can only imagine what it is like to watch a loved one suffer from Alzheimer's disease. My heart goes out to all those families who face this challenge daily.  President Reagan?s struggle with this illness has brought much needed attention to the devastating impact it has on its victims and their families.

It's exciting to learn about the breakthroughs in Alzheimer's research.  As a member of the House Appropriation's Committee, I am a supporter of increased funding for medical research through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) so that one day we can find a cure for Alzheimer's.  Over the past several years, Congress has worked on doubling the NIH budget.  This is quite an achievement and a significant step toward providing cutting edge treatments for victims of all diseases.  I will continue to support these efforts year in and year out.

But more must be done to help caregivers who give up so much to care for their loved ones.  That's why I've also cosponsored H.R. 1083, the Lifespan Respite Care Act.   This bill would provide grants to states to develop statewide coordinated respite care programs.  It would also establish a National Resource Center on Lifespan Respite Care to maintain a national database and provide training, technical assistance, and information for families and other caregivers. 

I look forward to working with my colleagues to support increased funding for medical research and look for ways to help ease the strain so many folks feel when caring for a relative over a long period of time.  Thanks for being an advocate for the millions of people who are impacted by this terrible disease.