World Alzheimer's Day 1997
Message from Mrs Nancy Reagan
I would like to join with ADI, representing as it does all the national Alzheimer's Associations throughout the world. These associations bring together people with dementia and their carers, marking September 21 World Alzheimer's Day. This day has been set aside to remind the world of the 18 million people globally who have Alzheimer's disease or some other form of dementia, the number of which is increasing daily.
I hope that the message in this charter will increase global awareness and promote understanding about this disease, the people who have it and those who care for them. Alzheimer's disease knows no social, economic, ethnic, racial or geographical limits and as the ageing global population continues to increase so will the economic and social impact of this disease.
My husband, the former president of the United States, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. People from many different countries have sent messages to me.They have been a source of great comfort and remind me that I am not alone that there are other people in my situation. I would like to assure others they too are not alone. There is help. There are people who understand.
I would like to say to say to all those people whose lives have been touched by Alzheimer's disease, don't ever lose hope, even when life seems bleak and hopeless, know that you are not alone.
Where next?
