After a years-long process of doctor’s visits and misdiagnoses, I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 53. As a widowed mother of three teens, this was a devastating development. With treatment, the support of my family and friends and the connections I’ve made with others diagnosed with this disease, I’m making the most of my life and living well while battling Alzheimer’s.

I joined more than 1,100 Alzheimer’s Impact Movement advocates in Washington to ensure our representatives know of the strong support for efforts to address Alzheimer’s nationwide.

We met with Sen. Susan Collins, who has a clear vision for how Alzheimer’s prevention, detection, treatment and care can continue to be improved with Congress’ support. She told us definitively that, as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, she will not allow the U.S. to retreat from the fight against Alzheimer’s. Now is the time to do more, not less.

In 2011, Alzheimer’s research funding stood at less than $500 million annually. Thanks to Sen. Collins’ leadership, Congress has continually increased funding in the years since, reaching a record $3.8 billion in 2024. That is an astonishing accomplishment.

Research advancements that this funding has yielded are giving me more time and helping me live my life to the fullest. But we have to continue to advocate for more progress.

Please join me in thanking Sen. Collins for her leadership and personal passion in the fight against Alzheimer’s and urging all legislators to make Alzheimer’s research funding a priority.

Tracey Collins
Saco