A word from the Chairmen
Catherine PASTOR
— President of AMPA —
Having experienced Alzheimer’s disease firsthand in my family, I understand the profound impact it has on our lives. Through AMPA, I wanted to take action for this cause. My primary goal was to gain a better understanding of the disease by assisting and supporting scientists worldwide. Thanks to AMPA, several internationally renowned medical conferences have been held in Monaco, paving the way for promising new avenues of research.
My second wish was to raise public awareness so that every Monegasque would feel involved and supportive. Since 2009, World Alzheimer’s Day has been celebrated in the Principality every September 21st.
My third wish was to provide help and support to families who are so often destitute and helpless. AMPA provides them with useful advice and information and funds concrete projects, such as the creation of new facilities to improve the quality of life for sick people.
Today, I am committed to continuing and expanding my efforts by supporting countries around the Mediterranean. Given the scale of the Alzheimer’s disease crisis in these countries, it is urgent to encourage them now to take action and make this challenge a public health priority
Professor Alain PESCE
— Vice-President of AMPA —
The guiding principle of the medical project that I have the honour of coordinating as head of department at the Princess Grace Hospital Centre in Monaco is based on ‘caring’. Does this not apply particularly to people who are often anxious, weakened by the loss of their bearings, and yet still sensitive to an empathetic approach?
In order to implement this project, the care pathway for people with Alzheimer’s disease in Monaco benefits from a high-quality clinical gerontology centre: the Rainier III Centre.
Why such a strong involvement in this disease, and an association? Certainly the desire to be involved in concrete actions on a front where we are needed.
This was the case, on a personal level, for many years, with patients suffering from leukaemia and later from Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Today, we cannot ignore the medical, social and ethical challenges posed by the consequences of Alzheimer’s disease.
With AMPA, alongside patients and their families, we are part of a movement where interest in clinical and fundamental research does not overshadow the importance of life plans.