Impact Report Web Header 2024

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People personally impacted by FTD have the most powerful voices to advocate for our community and reduce the stigma that often comes with a diagnosis. By sharing our stories, we can persuade lawmakers to take direct action on legislative, policy, and regulatory changes, leading to earlier and more accurate diagnosis, advancements in research, and improved access to care management and support options.

Launched in fall 2023, AFTD’s Advocacy Action Center provides resources to help volunteers engage with their legislators to increase FTD awareness and communicate the needs of those facing the disease.

How do we Advocate - IR24
Making a Difference – Becoming an FTD Advocate”: This March 2024 webinar offered guidance on how to become an advocate and highlighted available resources.
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This map reflects advocates’ progress in securing proclamations and resolutions to recognize FTD Awareness Week (as of 9/30/2024).

“I reached out to my state senator…I shared AFTD’s resolution template, and we managed to complete everything in 24 hours. There’s not a lot I can do for my husband beyond making sure he’s as comfortable as possible but if I can help any families who may go through this in the future, I want to do it.”

Jeanne Cestone, whose husband was diagnosed with FTD in 2022, successfully pursued an FTD Awareness Week resolution in Delaware

Det Personer med FTD Advisory Council ensures the insights and voices of people living with FTD are at the forefront of AFTD’s work. Eight Council members give input on our policies, programs, and services, contribute to the Education Conference program, and write articles for our weekly e-newsletter, Help & Hope.

AFTD staff serve on 21 national committees and working groups, including the CReATe Consortium of the NIH Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network, FNIH Biomarkers Consortium, and Milken Institute's Alliance to Improve Dementia Care, to ensure FTD remains a priority in policy discussions centered on all forms of dementia, and to inform these assemblies on the lived experience of the disease.

pwFTD Council - IR Advocacy 24
Members of the Council shared their perspectives on encountering and navigating stigma while living with FTD at our 2024 Education Conference. They also hosted a breakout session to expand on this topic and offer advice to others.
EHW - NY Bill Reading - IR24

“Sharing our family’s journey with lawmakers over the past year, and using that to raise public awareness about FTD, has been a very positive experience. The advocates, scientists, and policymakers I’ve met through the work have transformed how I approach our family’s FTD journey, and given me hope that we’re at a turning point in terms of awareness and action.”

Emma Heming Willis