H.M. Drottningens tal vid öppnandet av 2nd Swedish Meeting for Alzheimer Research

Stockholm

(Det talade ordet gäller)

President of Karolinska Institutet,
Researchers,
Ladies and gentlemen,

It is a pleasure to be here today, for this meeting on one of the greatest and most complex health challenges of our time. And I am delighted to have this opportunity to hear about your latest scientific discoveries and findings.

Many years ago, I lost my mother to Alzheimer’s. And last year, my brother.

Just like so many people, all over the world, I have come to learn how devastating this disease is. I have seen what it does to those who suffer from it, and their loved ones.
But let me assure you, that I have never, ever lost hope, that one day we will find a way to beat Alzheimer’s.

More than 25 years ago, we founded the Silviahemmet Foundation, that works to increase awareness and knowledge about dementia. We train and educate both health care professionals and relatives of patients – in Sweden and abroad.

Together with Karolinska Institutet, Silviahemmet has developed master courses in dementia care for physicians, physio-and occupational therapists, as well as a course “Dementia from Cell to Society” for dentists, dental hygienists, speech-language pathologists and audiologists.

Throughout this time, the scientific progress has been immense. Yet, there is still a lot to do. And that is why you are here today.

Ladies and gentlemen: You are world-leading researchers in Alzheimer´s disease, you are extremely talented young fellows, you are clinicians and specialists, you are philanthropists, you are people dedicated to various organizations within the dementia cause. Some of you also represent the link with the industry. You are all here today, united by one common goal: to combat Alzheimer’s disease.

I am deeply touched by your commitment to this cause and I want to thank you all for being here today, at this second Swedish Meeting for Alzheimer Research.

It is my sincere hope that today’s meeting will bring you inspiration and new opportunities to advance in your cause. I wish you all the best and look forward to following your important work in the future.

Thank you.