John Strader Highlights Alzheimer's Research and Care at Margate City Meeting

The Margate City Commission meeting held on September 3, 2025, featured a significant discussion on Alzheimer's awareness and support initiatives. The meeting commenced with a proclamation recognizing the efforts of the Southeast Florida Alzheimer's Association, presented by John Strader, co-chair of the board of directors.

Strader highlighted the association's commitment to funding over $100 million in Alzheimer's research in the upcoming year. He noted the federal government's substantial investment of approximately $4 billion annually through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) towards research, despite the ongoing challenge of finding a cure. He emphasized the importance of early detection, mentioning advancements in biomarker tests that can identify the disease in its initial stages.

Strader also expressed gratitude towards the city of Margate for its support of the Northwest Focal Point Center, which provides essential daycare services for individuals with Alzheimer's and respite care for their caregivers. He shared a personal connection to the cause, revealing that his wife is in the late stages of the disease, underscoring the critical need for such services.

The meeting included a call for collaboration between the city and the Alzheimer's Association, with Strader inviting Denise Dixon, the Broward County director of the walk to end Alzheimer's, to speak further on fundraising efforts. The association aims to enhance community engagement and support for those affected by Alzheimer's.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing Alzheimer's through community resources and partnerships, with plans for future collaboration to strengthen support for affected families in Margate.