Resolution No. 1020, introduced by Representatives West and Lepak, designates September 21 through September 28, 2025, as Lezlie Holliday Frontotemporal Dementia Awareness Week in Oklahoma. The resolution highlights the significance of raising awareness about frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a progressive neurological condition that affects behavior, personality, and language comprehension. It notes that FTD is often misdiagnosed, leading to an average delay of 3.6 years for an accurate diagnosis, and emphasizes the economic burden it places on families, estimated at $120,000 annually. The resolution also underscores the lack of current treatments or cures for FTD and the need for increased public awareness and support for research.
The Oklahoma House of Representatives expresses its commitment to improving brain health and care for individuals affected by FTD through this resolution. It acknowledges the importance of recognizing the consequences of undiagnosed and misdiagnosed cases of FTD and advocates for appropriate care options. By declaring this week as an awareness period, the resolution aims to foster understanding and support for those impacted by the disease, ultimately contributing to efforts for better treatment and potential cures.