Taking Action - Alzheimer Society visits Parliament Hill
"Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on a matter dear to my heart: the urgent need to declare dementia a national health priority … Only a national Alzheimer's strategy supported by increased funding for research, treatment and care and more adequate protection for vulnerable adults will prevent this deadly disease from overwhelming our human services system."
MP Alexa McDonough (Halifax, NDP)
OTTAWA – Capping off a successful Alzheimer Awareness Month, the Alzheimer Society made its presence felt at Parliament Hill January 30, raising awareness about the disease, and asking federal politicians to take action on the rising dementia epidemic.
The day began with a series of successful meetings with eight different MPs, including representatives from the Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta and the Maritimes. At the same time, members from three political parties used a portion of Question Period to read member statements on Alzheimer's disease and the Alzheimer Society. MP Patrick Brown, a PC representative from Barrie, ON, encouraged politicians to learn about what we they could do as individuals and legislators in making the commitment to better brain health.
"The Alzheimer Society of Canada and its local organizations are asking Canadians to make a commitment to improving their brain health by making changes to help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's," Mr. Brown said in his address.
Statements were also read by Liberal MP the Hon. Carolyn Bennett from St. Paul's, ON, and NDP MP Alexa McDonough, Halifax, NS.
Coffee Break™ Reception
Shortly following the member statements, the Speaker of the House of Commons, Peter Milliken, in collaboration with MP Alexa McDonough and the Alzheimer Society of Canada, hosted a Coffee Break Reception to help raise awareness about the growing dementia epidemic.
"I think Alzheimer's is a matter of great concern to many Canadians," said Mr. Milliken during his opening address.
The event drew more than 30 MPs and Senators, as well as number of stakeholders and policy makers. The Federal Government was represented by MP Steven Fletcher, Parliamentary Secretary for Health, who, on behalf of Health Minister Tony Clement, announced a $60,000 funding contribution to help fund a new study looking into the current and future prevalence and economic impact of dementia in Canada. Mr. Fletcher also highlighted the Alzheimer Society's "great work".
"On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who are committed to the fight against Alzheimer's disease for all your dedicated work," said Mr. Fletcher.
Other Speakers included MP Alexa McDonough, Alzheimer Society President Ray Congdon, Alzheimer Society CEO Scott Dudgeon, Alzheimer Society Board Member and person living with Alzheimer's disease Brenda Hounam.
"I ask you today to please remember, as our minds slowly forget, that our hearts are steadfast and true. I hope you have listened with your hearts today, and keep in your mind this memory," said Ms. Hounam.
All MPs present were encouraged to make the commitment to better brain health by signing up with their own healthy brain pledge. Those in attendance were also asked to consider becoming champions for the Alzheimer cause, and for those living with the disease in their home ridings.
What is next?
Our day at Parliament Hill allowed the Society to establish new connections, as well as nurture existing relationships. From here, we will be doing our best to follow up with all MPs, both those who showed an interest in the cause, as well as those who were absent from the event.
You too can do your part. With the Alzheimer Society and dementia fresh in the minds of those at Parliament Hill, remind your local MP why dementia needs to be a national health priority in Canada. Raise your voice and write a letter, become an Alzheimer Advocate, or donate to the cause.
Together, we can make a difference.
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