February 6, 2011 is the 100th anniversary of the birth of President Ronald Reagan. His place in American history cannot be overstated, although there is one particular aspect of his legacy that many of us may not realize. President Reagan was an early advocate for the cause of fighting Alzheimer’s disease, helping to raise public awareness about the disease with the first proclamation of National Alzheimer’s Disease Month in November 1983. Eleven years later, he publically announced his own diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease in a poignant letter to the American people. To date, he is the most public figure to disclose an Alzheimer diagnosis.
Reagan’s diagnosis shows no one is immune to this disease — not even the man who once held the most powerful office in the land. His well-documented deterioration and ultimate death from Alzheimer’s shines a bright light on the devastating human toll of this disease for the Americans who live with it and those who care for them. President Reagan’s high profile struggle with the disease helped to eliminate much of the stigma that has been attached to Alzheimer’s. Today, years after his death, we have many vocal champions. Thousands of amazingly powerful voices across the country continue to break down the stigma and pave a better path for those who will follow. And together we intend to win one for the Gipper.
Nancy Udelson
Executive Director*Post has been submitted to the Plain Dealer as a Letter To The Editor for publication Sunday, Feb 6, 2011
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