HBO is debuting a four-part documentary series on Alzheimer's starting Sunday evening, May 10. Yes, Mother's Day. That might seem a tad morbid, but I think it's an appropriate subject for us all to consider as we honor those who have made such an investment in us. Alzheimer's is said to be the second most-feared disease, after cancer. I don't doubt that statistic. I know I have prayed about it, asking the Lord to spare me in my future, and I'm sure I'm not alone in that prayer.
HBO's ambitious series aims to offer hope as it covers the accelerated research on this disease. In addition to the four documentaries, the Alzheimer's Project also encompasses 15 short supplemental films, an informative website, and a nationwide community-based information and outreach campaign. Even better: HBO is making some or all of this series available for a free preview across many television systems. So you can watch it even if you don't have HBO as part of your normal delivery. The programs will also be streaming on hbo.com. Check out the trailer below if you'd like to know more.
The HBO special was great, and it showed why clinical studies are so important. Current Alzheimer's therapies treat the symptoms associated with the disease, not the disease itself. There is a new study that explores if Bapineuzumab (Bapi), an investigational drug mentioned in the HBO special, can help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s can visit www.icarastudy.com to see if they might be eligible to enroll.
Posted by: Tracy | May 08, 2009 at 03:23 AM