Diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer's disease six years ago, Gordon Broom is passionate about his work as an Alzheimer's advocate and strongly believes that advocacy is key to advancing research toward methods of treatment, prevention and a cure.

When we spoke with Gordon recently, he was scheduled to meet his Congressman, Alcee Hastings, during the following week; he has met with Hastings' predecessor twice.

Making a connection

"One of the issues I see is that we don't have every member of Congress 'covered' by an Alzheimer's advocate," he explains. "As a result of redistricting, I have a new Congressman now and he has never had contact with an Alzheimer's advocate before. In-person meetings are critical to get our message across   we need our officials' help to fund Alzheimer's research and services."

Gordon's partner Larry Jordan, who joins him at these meetings, agrees. "When legislators talk with us, it brings Alzheimer's to life for them," he notes. "We also make sure to ask if they have a relative or friend with the disease. We've found that there's almost always a connection. That's very powerful in getting our point across – Alzheimer's is an epidemic that we have to address today."

Advancing research and ending stigma

Gordon's work in advocacy is driven by his commitment to Alzheimer's research, which is also reflected in his clinical trial participation.

"Research is the biggest part of this for me," he says. "There's no cure for this disease, and there won't be if people don't get involved. It's up to people with Alzheimer's, especially those in the early stage, to enroll in clinical trials."

Gordon's advocacy is also spurred on by the stigma associated with Alzheimer's and dementia. "The stigma keeps people with Alzheimer's, especially those who are newly diagnosed, from reaching out and asking for help. The stigma has got to stop! The Alzheimer's Association is doing something about it and I want to be part of that work."

The rewards of reaching out

As a member of the National 2012 Early-Stage Advisory Group, Gordon is also interested in advocating for the needs and rights of LGBT persons living with Alzheimer's disease. He believes that life does not end when you are diagnosed with Alzheimer's and encourages others to become advocates and volunteer with the Association.

"I feel validated that my efforts are fruitful and I find that it's very rewarding," he reflects. "I think that people who advocate contribute to bringing an end to the disease."