To the editor:

As a constituent of Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach, I am deeply concerned about the recent House Appropriations Committee recommendation to increase Alzheimer’s research funding at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by only $15 million in Fiscal Year 2026 — far short of the $113 million increase that NIH scientists have said is needed to sustain progress. The Senate Committee’s FY26 recommendation is $100 million, showing a stronger commitment to combating this devastating disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is not only a heartbreaking illness for families; it’s also one of the most expensive diseases for Medicare to cover. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Congresswoman Fischbach understands firsthand how Alzheimer’s is straining our healthcare system and driving up federal spending. Investing in research now is both a fiscal and moral responsibility — slowing or preventing Alzheimer’s will save Medicare billions in the long run.

We’ve made remarkable progress over the last decade, but research delays caused by underfunding could set us back years. I urge Congresswoman Fischbach to reconsider the House’s funding position and to champion stronger federal investment in Alzheimer’s research. Our families, caregivers, and future generations depend on it.

Dana Lietzau

Gibbon