27-05-2025
- Health
- San Francisco Chronicle
Letters: We need a cure for Alzheimer's. Why isn't the Trump administration fully funding research?
By holding back funding for Alzheimer's disease research and care, the Trump administration is destroying hope for millions of young Americans like me.
I'm 26 and lost my mother to young-onset Alzheimer's disease last year. She started showing signs when I was just 14. It was just the two of us at home, and I was alone in dealing with her angry lash outs, confusion, anxieties and forgetfulness. At the time, her doctor told her it was just menopause that was causing confusion and stress.
Between our family's lack of information and her doctors' failure to test, she went undiagnosed for seven painful years. My mom went from the most caring, thoughtful, and kind woman to someone I didn't even recognize anymore. In high school, I wondered if I was even important enough for her to care and remember things about my life.
Now, as a young woman, I and other family members have the Alzheimer's gene and a high risk of diagnosis. We must find a cure for my family and others at risk.
Please join me in urging California's senators and House members to fight for continued investment in Alzheimer's research and care.
Sarah Scott, San Francisco
Khmer Americans persevere
This year marks a profound milestone — 50 years since the Khmer people first arrived in the United States as refugees fleeing the horrors of war and the 'killing fields' in Cambodia in 1975.
A half a century later, the Khmer American community is reflecting on a journey of survival, healing and strength.
What began as a story of loss and displacement has grown into one of resilience. Across America, Khmer families have rebuilt their lives, preserved their culture and raised families, contributing to the nation's fabric in countless ways.
As we honor this 50th anniversary, we remember the lives lost, the pain endured, and the courage that carried a people through. We celebrate not only survival, but the spirit to thrive.
From refugee camps to thriving communities, the journey continues with pride, with purpose and with hope for the next 50 years.
Sesame allergy is deadly
I want to express my concern about the challenges faced by the estimated 1.5 million of us with sesame allergies.
Even though the number of Americans who suffer from this allergy has risen significantly over the past two decades, sesame has not always been given the recognition it deserves as a major allergen.
The lack of awareness of sesame allergies puts millions of people at risk and underscores the need for stronger labeling regulations and industry compliance.
I know firsthand how serious sesame reactions can be. Even trace amounts can trigger life-threatening anaphylaxis, making it crucial for food products to be clearly labeled.
Yet, sesame is often hidden in packaged foods, restaurant dishes and baked goods, leaving those of us with allergies in a constant state of uncertainty.
The Food and Drug Administration reaffirmed sesame's classification as a major allergen in 2022 and required food manufacturers to disclose its presence. However, more needs to be done to ensure proper enforcement and widespread compliance.
I urge food manufacturers, restaurants and policymakers to take sesame allergies seriously and ensure transparency for the safety of all consumers.
Michelle Kenfack, Hayward
Put tariff on gas cars
The state should pass a special sales tax (think tariff), say 1,000%, on the sale of gas-powered cars starting in 2025. Effectively banning their sale.
Surely, the Republicans in Washington can't object.
