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Someone asked for a draft letter in support of the Udall bill. I emailed this to NY's Pat Moynihan and you can adapt. [note the reference to 8-10 M voters in the extended PD community]. Come on NYer's let's get Pat on our side. I'll even vote for him! ---------- May 23, 1996 The Honorable Pat Moynihan U.S. Senate Building Washington, DC 20515 EMail: [log in to unmask] re: S684 The Morris K. Udall Parkinson's Research & Education Act Dear Pat: I would appreciate knowing your position on this important health bill which was first introduced on April 6, 1995, and currently has over 200 House and Senate co-sponsors. More and more young people are being diagnosed with Parkinsons - a progressive neurological disorder that controls motor function. I was diagnosed at age 50 and have joined the 1.5M directly afflicted and the 8-10M caregivers, families, and relatives. What triggers PD is unknown, but today's treatments provide temporary relief and become less and less effective over time. The good news is that scientists and research physicians agree that of all neurological disorders, Parkinsons is poised for a major breakthrough because there is a great deal of knowledge about the specific brain mechanism that is involved. Of course, progress is also controlled by funding, which is exactly what the Udall bill provides. I should also point out that PD research funding is high leverage because breakthroughs will apply to Altzheimers and other neuro-disorders. An upgrade in government support for a coordinated PD research is timely and has long-term economic and human resource benefits. I understand that PD research is presently far less than for many other diseases. Finally, when I think of the care needed down the road and resources of my caregivers and family, there is the spector of ruin and dependency on the government. This makes well funded PD research a win-win for all patients, their families, and communities. I am asking you to consider becoming a co-sponsor the Udall Bill asnd welcome your attention to this matter. If this is not possible,I would welcome the opportunity to respond to any concerns I could research. Thank you. Dan Murray Rochester