On a recent Friday afternoon, I joined fellow volunteers from the Alzheimer’s Association and a research scientist from the Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research in Rockland for a meeting at Rep. Mike Lawler’s local office. We came together to discuss the urgent need for continued investment in Alzheimer’s research and to share how this devastating disease affects individuals, families and caregivers in our community.

Although Lawler was delayed returning from Washington, his staff made time for us — spending a full hour in conversation late on a Friday afternoon. Their attentiveness and openness set the tone for a meaningful discussion. As we talked about the realities of Alzheimer’s disease, staff members shared their own personal experiences with loved ones who had been affected. Those moments reinforced an important truth: Alzheimer’s is not an abstract policy issue. It is deeply personal and it........

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