Page 21 - Gilbert Awards 6-Year Scrapbook

2011 Winner, Policy & Advocacy:

Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center (RADC) - Chicago, IL

Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center (RADC), is one of 29 Alzheimer’s disease research centers across the

country designated and funded by the National Institute on Aging. RADC provides a full spectrum of

services in the diagnosis and care of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. The orga-
nization emphasizes supporting both the patient and caregiver through research, clinical care services,

educational outreach, and programs like Without Warning. Website: www.rush.edu

Program:

Without Warning

Without Warning (WW) is a free, muti-

faceted advocacy, education and sup-

port program tailored for persons with
younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease

(YOAD) and their family caregivers. WW

has helped hundreds of families living

with YOAD. Frequently overlooked by

national advocacy campaigns focused

on older persons with the disease, people
with YOAD and their families often de-

scribe themselves as “voiceless.” With the

resources and support of WW, members

raise awareness, develop relationships,

and instigate change. WW advocacy
efforts occur on a personal level through

support groups; within the community

through presentations and interviews;

and nationally, through policy hearings.

If Without Warning wasn’t in existnece, I don’t know what I would do. I’ve got this desease. Maybe

there will be some help for me, maybe not. At least I have these people going through it with me. - Tom

Swensen, (husband, Alzheimer’s care recipient, above with son, and caregiving wife).

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