Monday, March 8, 2010 The Alzheimer’s Association today presented Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, with their 2010 Humanitarian Award. This honor is given each year to a public official who has made a significant contribution to help those who are struggling with Alzheimer’s disease. In recognizing Commissioner Astrue, the Alzheimer’s Association noted, “his exceptional leadership in creating the Compassionate Allowances Initiative and the decision to include early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in that initiative.” "Commissioner Astrue has worked tirelessly to ensure that disabled Americans receive the Social Security disability benefits they've earned in a timely way,” said President Barack Obama. “I congratulate Mike for receiving this honor, and I know he joins me in admiration for the tremendous work that the Alzheimer's Association does every day," Harry Johns, President and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, stated “On behalf of all the individuals who now won’t have to go through a long decision process and multiple lengthy appeals to obtain their benefits, the Alzheimer’s Association is proud to honor Commissioner Astrue for establishing this initiative which helps to ease the burden of so many families.” |
