Rep. Barbara Lee released the following statement:

Yesterday, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) introduced two pieces of legislation to highlight the issue of multiple sclerosis, calling for more funding and attention for this chronic, disabling disease. The first piece of legislation is a resolution designed to support the goals and ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week. Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week is celebrated this year from March 14ththrough March 20th. Next week advocates living with multiple sclerosis and their families will visit Capitol Hill to lobby Congress in support of additional funding and attention to the issue of multiple sclerosis.

The second piece of legislation, the Adult Day Achievement Center Enhancement Act, is designed to support adult day programs that serve younger adults suffering from a disability as a result of a neurological disease or condition like multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease or traumatic brain injury (TBI).

“The resolution I introduced is designed to call attention to the issue of multiple sclerosis, by encouraging greater understanding and awareness while recognizing the efforts of those who are living with and fighting against this disease. I applaud Senator Casey for introducing and passing a similar resolution in the Senate,” said Congresswoman Lee. “Adult day programs provide a critical source of support, and my bill would ensure that these vital programs are strengthened while ensuring that the needs of young adults and veterans are taken care of. We must ensure that individuals suffering from MS, Parkinson’s, TBI, or other similar neurological diseases or conditions – and their families – can continue to live their lives in dignity.”

Over 400,000 people are estimated to be living with multiple sclerosis, nearly 1 million people live with Parkinson’s disease, and about 1.4 million people suffer traumatic brain injuries every year.

Typically, people suffering from these neurological diseases or conditions require support from family caregivers to carry out the activities of daily living. Adult day programs can offer a range of services to assist individuals with disabilities – including medical care, rehabilitation therapies, nutrition therapy, social interaction and transportation. Most adult day programs are structured to address the needs of an older adult population living with disabilities. However, neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis can strike younger adults at an early age.