The Oklahoma House of Representatives has taken a decisive step to raise awareness about a lesser-known but deeply impactful neurological condition by adopting House Resolution 1020. Authored by Rep. Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City, the resolution designates the last week of September as Frontotemporal Dementia Awareness Week in Oklahoma. This marks a concerted effort to bring to light the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by frontotemporal dementia, primarily affecting individuals between the ages of 45 and 64, according to the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
While on the House floor, joined by her longtime friend Lezlie Holliday, who was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, West emphasized the gravity of the disease. "Frontotemporal dementia is not well known, but its impact on families is life-altering," West said, with Holliday standing only feet away, a testament to the personal battles being waged against frontotemporal dementia. As per the information obtained by the Oklahoma House of Representatives, only nine states, including Oklahoma, have taken the step to formally recognize this condition.
Frontotemporal dementia, as outlined by the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, imposes an average economic burden of $120,000 per year on families. This cost arises primarily due to the disease's merciless progression, characterized by the gradual erosion of language, behavior, and emotional functioning. Currently, there is neither a cure nor a treatment available that can slow or stop the progression of frontotemporal dementia, adding a layer of urgency to West's resolution, according to the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
Oklahoma's action to mark the Lezlie Holliday Frontotemporal Dementia Awareness Week from September 21–28, 2025, has been received as a beacon of hope for those in the shadow of frontotemporal dementia. In a statement underscoring the potency of awareness, Rep. West said, "I hope this resolution will not only bring comfort and recognition to those who are struggling but also help accelerate the path to better diagnosis, treatment, and one day, a cure," as stated by the Oklahoma House of Representatives. The words, echoing through the chamber of legislators, served as a call to action for not just Oklahoma but for all stakeholders in the fight against this condition.
