The Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act has just been signed into law, and I want to thank U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer for having been a co-sponsor of this meaningful legislation.

The BOLD Act will allow effective Alzheimer’s public health interventions to be implemented across the country. This is important to me because I am grieving the loss of my husband to dementia two years ago this week.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but other diseases can also lead to memory loss. Dementia, like rainfall, is permeating our neighborhoods and communities without regard for whom it touches.

Every 65 seconds, someone develops Alzheimer’s disease — which is why Congress must remain committed to action on this devastating disease. However, there is hope. There will be scientific breakthroughs to knock this disease — dementia — on its “butt’ — on its “keester.”

Maybe not tomorrow or next year, but it will happen! Thank you, Congressman Kilmer, for helping to pass this important legislation. By applying a public health approach to reduce risk, detect early symptoms and advance care, you are helping to change the trajectory of this devastating disease.

Thank you!

Madeleine Fraley

Port Orchard