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Trump signs executive order banning transgender athletes from women's sports, directing DOJ to enforce; Educators voice concern for PA immigrant student protections; WA rent stabilization bills have huge public support; ME benefits from $2.2 billion in federal clean energy investments.

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Nationwide protests erupt against federal policies, Indiana's EV infrastructure expansion stalls due to a funding freeze, and Washington state pushes for rent stabilization to combat rising housing costs.

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During Black History Month, a new book shares how a unique partnership built 5,000 schools for Black students, anti-hunger advocates say ag communities would benefit from an expanded SNAP program, and Americans have $90 billion in unpaid medical bills.

Iowans march for Alzheimer's research

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Wednesday, September 25, 2024   

Advocates for people battling Alzheimer's disease and their families are marching in Des Moines this weekend to raise money for brain research and ultimately, to find a cure.

Alzheimer's is a degenerative brain disease and the most common cause of dementia.

Lauren Livingston, communications director for the Iowa chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, said marchers are trying to raise $500,000 and while the funds are critical, she stressed the point of the event goes beyond raising money.

"I've heard a lot of people who come to the event who are personally affected say that they feel like it's kind of a big support group," Livingston explained. "Where you are getting together with other families who have been through something the same, or very similar, to what you've been through with your loved one."

Roughly 62,000 Iowans suffer from Alzheimer's disease and Livingston pointed out the number grows every year. At least 100,000 family members and caregivers in the state are also directly affected.

The Alzheimer's Association reported the number of disease-related deaths doubled between 2000 and 2021, despite a huge increase in research. Nationwide, 7 million people have been diagnosed, and at least 11 million caregivers are directly affected. Livingston noted money raised during the march will be used to provide services to them, too.

"Services like support groups for caregivers and education programs to help people learn about the disease and what to expect if a loved one is living with it," Livingston outlined. "We're there to help caregivers right now, when they're in the middle of the disease with their loved one."

There still is no cure for Alzheimer's disease but federal regulators have recently approved medications that can slow its progression.


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