Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Among the top ten causes of death, it's the only one that cannot be cured or slowed in progression. The burden of an Alzheimer's diagnosis is often shouldered by the whole family.

America's aging population will only mean more Alzheimer's diagnoses in the coming years — adding to the already five million sufferers of the disease. We need to act now if we are going to have a chance to help those affected and prevent further suffering from this debilitating condition.

In response to the expanding problem of Alzheimer's, President Obama recently announced his administration would increase Alzheimer's funding by over $100 million — $50 million will immediately go toward dementia research and an additional $80 will be requested for Alzheimer's.

Thank President Obama for doing his part to help families who are struggling with this crippling illness.